Consumer Health Forums

My optician tells me that I should get a check-up every 6 months. This seems quite alot to me and I am a bit suspicious because I know that they run businesses. they aren't like the the NHS.

Anyone any ideas?

Hi PopUp

You are quite right to be suspicious of this, unless there is a known medical condition that has already been highlighted to you by this (or another) optician.

If you believe you eyesight to be 'good' then the general consensus would seem to be that an examination for an adult (between 18 - 60) would be once every 2 years, and once every year for the over 60s.

If you work with VDUs then you might wish to consider a revised figure, but generally speaking tests should be provided by your employer.

Eye tests can, of course, pick up early signs of many things other than simply your ability to read small print, for instance, and they are actually a test that is all too commonly overlooked by the general population. This is not the role of a high street optician (Optometrist) though - they are primarily there to find the right glasses for you!

This overall health-care examination is the role of an ophthalmologist.
Are Optician's records medical records? - The Consumer Forums

Hi Popup,

My dad had diabetes and had to have his eyes tested more often as they bled, is this the case with you?

Have you asked your optician why you need to go so often?

The diabetic eye-test includes retinopathy.
This involves drops in the eyes to dilate the pupils, then examination, through the lens, of the retina. The optician looks for any signs of scarring or lesions on the retina which, if untreated, could lead to blindness. If anything is found, then the patient is referred to an eye-clinic or eye specialist for further investigation.
The examination is non-intrusive and totally painless, although the light used is extremely bright.

Diabetic eye-testing with retinopathy is carried out, free of charge, every 12 months.

Regards, Rooster.

Hi Popup,

First You should ask your optician about the reason of check up very often.

__________________
Fitness Tracking