Written Question · S4W-20596 · Session 4
What the evidence base is for providing free eye tests (a) annually for age groups under 16 and over 60 and (b) every two years for the age…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government what the evidence base is for providing free eye tests (a) annually for age groups under 16 and over 60 and (b) every two years for the age group between 16 and 59 for people who do not qualify for a free supplementary eye test other than those who should have a repeat test because of personal or family conditions.
The answer
Free NHS eye examinations are available annually, where required, for children aged under 16 and adults aged 60 and over.
For children rapid growth may require them to attend for eye examinations annually. Cases where it is particularly important for annual eye examinations in children include the detection and up to date correction of refractive error and early and regular intervention to reduce visual loss due to squints.
For adults the incidence of eye disease increases dramatically with age and with poor general health. Cataract, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are common causes of visual loss in older people. Frequent refractive error changes, and the screening and monitoring of disease development and progression are vital to maintain optimal vision. Good vision does not rule out the possibility of sight threatening eye disease and regular eye examinations in older people are most important.
Less frequent examinations may be recommended by the optometrist where the likelihood of ocular disease and refractive change is low.
Supplementary eye examinations are available to all, free of charge, where required. Supplementary eye examinations are undertaken for a range of reasons including follow up or repeat tests or procedures to monitor an abnormality or suspect abnormality; referral refinement before deciding if a patient requires referral to secondary care; where a patient has a problem with their eyes before their next primary eye examination is due.
For children rapid growth may require them to attend for eye examinations annually. Cases where it is particularly important for annual eye examinations in children include the detection and up to date correction of refractive error and early and regular intervention to reduce visual loss due to squints.
For adults the incidence of eye disease increases dramatically with age and with poor general health. Cataract, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are common causes of visual loss in older people. Frequent refractive error changes, and the screening and monitoring of disease development and progression are vital to maintain optimal vision. Good vision does not rule out the possibility of sight threatening eye disease and regular eye examinations in older people are most important.
Less frequent examinations may be recommended by the optometrist where the likelihood of ocular disease and refractive change is low.
Supplementary eye examinations are available to all, free of charge, where required. Supplementary eye examinations are undertaken for a range of reasons including follow up or repeat tests or procedures to monitor an abnormality or suspect abnormality; referral refinement before deciding if a patient requires referral to secondary care; where a patient has a problem with their eyes before their next primary eye examination is due.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S4W-20596 by reference.