Opticians to offer expanded NHS eye care services

Manx Care says changes will improve access and reduce need for GP or hospital visits

Opticians on the Isle of Man can now provide a wider range of NHS-funded services following changes introduced by Manx Care.

In addition to routine sight tests, practices will be able to carry out supplementary examinations such as glaucoma reviews, follow-ups after cataract surgery, checks for ocular hypertension, and assessments for conditions including eye pain, sudden changes in vision, flashes or floaters, and infections.

The move follows a pilot Minor Eye Conditions Service at Specsavers, which will now be replaced by the expanded provision across all opticians.

Manx Care says the change will allow patients to access the most appropriate care more quickly and closer to home, without the need to visit a GP or the Emergency Department for many common eye problems.

For urgent issues such as suspected retinal detachment, severe eye pain, or sudden and significant loss of vision, patients are still advised to attend Noble’s Hospital.

Manx Care says there will be no charge for the expanded NHS services at opticians.