Eye care costs a barrier for people on low incomes: new report from Healthwatch England

An estimated 50% of sight loss is avoidable. That’s why it’s vital that people can have their eyesight tested regularly and get the help they need if there is a problem. However, new research from Healthwatch England has found that the costs associated with visiting opticians are deterring those on the lowest incomes from getting regular eye tests.

One in seven (14%) of the people who responded to the survey had avoided eye care due to cost in the last two years. People who described themselves as ‘not at all comfortable financially’ were much more likely to say they avoided going to opticians than those who were financially very comfortable (39% vs 3%).

Here in Surrey we worked with local partners to promote the national survey and to find out what local people think – 61 Surrey residents responded. People in Surrey talked to us about waiting times and the impact of waiting, the cost burden of eye tests, and the issue of “upselling” (98% of the people eligible for free eye care had experienced some kind of “upselling”, for things such as additional tests, more expensive frames and contact lenses). You can read more in our A strain on sight: waiting for NHS specialist eye care one pager and in our Insight Bulletin.

For more information on eye health please visit the information and advice section of our website or contact our Helpdesk.