NHS Entitlements

The NHS will only fund a standard eye examination. At Aves Optometrists we provide the most comprehensive NHS Eye Examination that we can, but because funding is limited, additional tests such as retinal photography may entail a fee.

The following groups are entitled to a free NHS eye examination:

• Under 16’s
• Under 19’s, still in full-time education
• Over 60’s
• Those receiving: income support, family tax credit, or job seekers allowance
• Those in possession of a current HC1 certificate
• People with diabetes or glaucoma
• People over 40 with a direct relative who has glaucoma
• People registered blind or partially sighted
• People whose prescription includes complex lenses.

Please note that the NHS will not fund unlimited eye examinations and will restrict them to every 2 years in most cases. Your Optometrist can ask for another test to be funded at a shorter interval if it is clinically necessary. People over 70 or with glaucoma or diabetes, or children under 16 can be tested yearly under the NHS. If you are concerned about your eyes or your vision and are not yet due for your routine eye examination, please call us and we will advise you whether another NHS funded eye examination can be carried out.

Private Fees