Optometrists, largely based in primary care, examine patients’ eyes to identify injuries, vision problems or diseases and prescribe spectacles or contact lenses.
In Wales there is an emphasis on optometrists improving outcomes through early detection and management of eye diseases and related systemic conditions.
We manage and deliver postgraduate education, mentoring, and professional development to ensure the profession's growth and prepare future optometrists to deliver high-quality primary care.
Optometry predominantly exists in primary care, bringing significant benefits by providing accessible, preventative eye health services directly within community healthcare settings. Optometrists are equipped to detect early signs of eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, as well as systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can first present through eye symptoms.
By utilising optometry in primary care, patients receive;
Optometry within the hospital eye service plays a vital role in delivering;
By collaborating within multidisciplinary teams, hospital optometrists help streamline patient pathways, reduce wait times, and increase the hospital’s capacity to handle both routine and urgent eye cases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and efficiency within the healthcare system.
We help all eye care professionals achieve this through education, development, reflection, and mentoring. We're also ensuring future optometrists can treat patients in primary care first.
Our optometry team can be contacted via 01443 824653 or HEIW.Optometry@wales.nhs.uk.