AOP response to Which?

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is responding to the Which? article ‘Two out of five eye tests not up to scratch, according to Which? probe’.

The AOP is aware of the findings by Which? in their latest report, comparing how a sight test is conducted at many High Street optical practices. There is no evidence to suggest that this is typical across the sector and we hope that this report does not cause concern for the public.

Optometrists are eye health professionals and the services they provide are far wider than a simple test to determine whether spectacles or contact lenses are required to correct vision.

As well as an eye health check, a sight test might detect signs of underlying general health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. A sight test includes a range of tests and this is tailored to the individual patient.

Optometrist and Clinical Director at the AOP, Peter Hampson, said: “All registered optometrists and dispensing opticians are governed by set Standards of Practice to ensure patient care remains at the centre of their professional practice. Findings from our 2017 survey into the wellbeing of UK optometrists indicates that many within the profession have a deep sense of accountability and diligence.”

The AOP supports its members to meet Standard of Practice by producing guidance which gives advice on a range of areas relating to communication, patient referrals, safeguarding and maintaining patient records.

Find out more about what to expect from a sight test on the AOP website, www.aop.org.uk/patients

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For more information, please contact Serena Box, PR and Media Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2063.

Notes to Editors

Association of Optometrists

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the UK. We support over 80% of practising optometrists, to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health. As a founding member of the Optical Confederation we work with others to improve eye health for the public good. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk