HC Deb 28 February 1991 vol 186 c560W
Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Health which groups of people can currently receive a free eyesight test; and what changes in criteria are proposed.

Mr. Dorrell

Since 1 April 1989 the groups entitled to a free NHS sight tests have been:

  • Children under 16.
  • Full time students under 19.
  • People on Income Support or Family Credit and their partners.
  • Holders of exemption certificate AG2.
  • People who are registered blind or partially sighted.
  • Those who- need certain complex lenses.
  • Diagnosed diabetics and glaucoma sufferers.
  • Close relatives aged 40 or over of diagnosed glaucoma sufferers.
  • Patients of the Hospital Eye Service.

These groups cover approximately one-third of the population. There are no plans to alter these criteria.

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