About the Eyes and the Eye Examination

The Eye Examination

The eye examination is a complete health check of your eyes and visual system, as well as testing to see if spectacles are needed. It is recommended that most people have their eyes examined by an optometrist every two years, regardless of whether or not they wear spectacles.

Some people will need their eyes examining more frequently, but your optometrist will advise you on this at the end of your visit.

It is strongly recommended that if you do need glasses that they are supplied by the practice where you have your test done. The prescribing and dispensing of spectacles are closely linked and it is in your best interests to have your spectacles dispensed where you have your eyes examined. It is often more difficult to resolve any problems you may have with your spectacles when prescribing and supply are separated.

The eye examination is funded by the NHS for many people, but some will have to pay a private fee, the cost of which varies.

NHS entitlement

The following groups are eligible for NHS funded eye examinations, assuming they are due their test or are having problems with their vision:

Children under 16 years old

You’re entitled to a free NHS sight test if you:

  • are under 16
  • are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
  • are 60 or over
  • are registered as partially sighted or blind
  • have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
  • are 40 or over and your mother, father, sibling or child has been diagnosed with glaucoma
  • have been advised by an ophthalmologist that you’re at risk of glaucoma
  • are a prisoner on leave from prison
  • are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your prescription must be over 10 dioptres

You’re also entitled if you or your partner – including civil partner – receive, or you’re under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving:

If you’re entitled to or named on:

  • a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)

People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help with the cost of a private sight test.

You’re entitled to an optical voucher for help towards the cost of your glasses or contact lenses if you:

  • are under 16
  • are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
  • are a prisoner on leave from prison
  • are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – an optician can advise you about your entitlement

You’re also entitled if you or your partner – including civil partner – receive, or you’re under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving:

  • Income Support
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
  • Universal Credit and meet the criteria

If you’re entitled to or named on:

  • a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)

People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses.

Additional Eye Care

Should you be experiencing problems with your vision and you are not due your regular examination, you may need an additional eye test.

However, if you are experiencing other problems, such as sore, red eyes, watery eyes, flashing lights or things floating in your vision (amongst other problems) you are best to have a PEARS examination.

PEARS (Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral System) is designed to diagnose and sometimes treat other eye problems. Many practices in Sheffield can carry out this assessment under the NHS, so there is no charge to you. You must be registered with a Sheffield GP to be eligible. If you have an eye problem that you feel might fit, please phone one of our PEARS practices.

Common Eye Conditions