Independent Optician

General information

As a family run independent we place emphasis on examining our client’s eyes rather than a simple sight test with a view to just selling glasses, pushing often unnecessary lens treatments or meeting expectations of an expensive TV marketing campaign. To this end we have invested in up to date equipment both in respect of the eye examination and in dispensing. We allow ample time both to perform an unhurried tailored consultation and to explain the results and answer any questions you might have. We are fully integrated in the NHS Eye care service and offer direct Cataract referrals together with Cataract aftercare and Glaucoma Hypertension monitoring. We offer NHS and private eye examinations.

The start of any eye examinations is with the booking of the appointment, it helps the receptionist when booking if you know when you last had your eyes examined and very briefly any concerns if it is not time for your routine check. Rest assured you will see resident Optometrist Mr Attrell not a here today gone tomorrow locum, this ensures continuity of care.

Remember to bring your spectacles with you on the day, if you are a new patient we will need to see what you have been using, the prescription, type of lens and material of lens, this helps when discussing your visual needs and whether a change is needed.

An eye examination takes around 30 minutes sometimes longer, as well as testing your sight the optometrist will check the health of the eye and look for any signs of general health problems. Not to scare you but the list of possible issues here is almost endless but the common ones are Age Related Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy and Dry Eye.

You will be asked about any problems you are experiencing and some questions on your general health and medication. You may be asked about any work you do or any recreational activities/ hobbies.

Your eyes will be examined both inside and out, the inside will be examined using an ophthalmoscope this shines a light through the pupil allowing a view of the internal structures.

The Optometrist will carry out a series of tests to check your vision and assess your distance vision (TV Driving) and near vision (reading /close work) and also intermediate (computer).

Other tests will be done to check eye pressure, (do not worry we use a non puff icare tonometer which is much more comfortable) and field of vision of vision test.

At the end of the examination you will be given a prescription for spectacles if needed or statement to confirm you do not need a change /correction.

If you need medical treatment or information passed on for an eye condition you may be referred to your Doctor or hospital.

Other supplementary tests may be carried out including digital retinal photography and possibly Goldman tonometry if you are under a Glaucoma monitoring scheme in conjunction with the hospital. These are all included in the Private and NHS sight test there are no hidden extras.

And Remember over 60’s, Children and those on benefits do not have to pay a thing.