How and where to get an eye exam or treatment for minor/major ailments
There are many high street opticians available locally for you to try. From well known companies such as Specsavers, Boots, and Vision Express. There are also independent stores where you may be offered different services dependant on your needs and budget. Seeing an optician regularly can help to identify and any eye problems early so you can receive early intervention and treatment if needed. They can also detect other health conditions that can effect the eyes such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disease.
Opticians
Specsavers offer a range of different tests and a choice of glasses/frames and contact lenses. If you meet certain criteria such as being under 19 and in full time education, are over 60 or over 40 with certain health conditions then you may qualify for a free test. Otherwise tests start at £20.
Other opticians are available and many have online booking systems.
Pharmacy
Your local pharmacy is a really useful place to go ro when you have a minor eye problem such as conjunctivitis, dry eyes or allergies. They can advise on the best course of treatment without waiting to see a Dr or an optician or they can signpost you to the most appropriate treatment provider for your ailment.
Sheffield Hallamshire Hospital emergency eye clinic
Emergency Eye Clinic
The Emergency Eye Clinic is open from 8:00am – 4:30pm - Monday to Friday excluding bank holidays.
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How does the service work?
Patients with an emergency eye complaint will need to attend in person during the hours of 8am-4.30pm excluding bank holidays. It is important to note that not all conditions will need to be seen in the Emergency Eye Centre. Patients who do not have an emergency but need to be seen in person can receive advice and alternative options regarding appropriate treatment and review from the following:
• Local pharmacy for a specific treatment
• An optician
• Visiting your GP
• An appointment on a different day within the Ophthalmology Department
In an emergency
If you have received an injury to your eye or have any signs or symptoms that are not normal for you then you should either contact 111 for advice, got to a minor injuries walk in or A&E or call 999 depending on the severity of the issue.