The Importance of Getting a Low Vision Assessment

 

The importance of getting a low vision assessment RNIB and Action for Blind People strongly advise anyone with sight loss to have a low vision assessment.

 

This is an NHS funded service, accessed through your local hospital eye clinic and is based at the hospital or run by a local organisation or optometrist.

You can be referred to the clinic by your General Practitioner (GP or doctor), optometrist or ophthalmologist. The assessment is free of charge and available to anyone with low vision. In some parts of the UK, such as Wales, you can self-refer through your local accredited low vision scheme optometrist.

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Low vision means that you will be finding it hard to see things as clearly as you would like to, even after you have had your eyes tested and are wearing the correct glasses or contact lenses. You do not have to be registered as sight impaired to access a low vision service.

At the assessment a qualified low vision practitioner will check your vision and assess your suitability for low vision aids such as magnifiers.

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Any recommended magnifiers are then issued free of charge on the NHS.

As magnifiers can be difficult to use initially, rehabilitation low vision professionals will help you learn how to get the best out of the equipment they prescribe.

If you have been discharged by your eye specialist, you can ask your GP or optometrist to refer you to the nearest clinic.