Seema Kennedy becomes health minister

South Ribble MP Seema Kennedy has been appointed as parliamentary under secretary of state for public health and primary care, which includes responsibility for ophthalmic services.

Ms Kennedy takes up the position following the resignation of Steve Brine on March 25. She previously held the role of parliamentary private secretary to prime minister Theresa May.

During National Eye Health Week 2018, Ms Kennedy visited an optical practice before encouraging her followers on Twitter to get regular eye tests.

“Millions risk future sight loss by failing to have regular eye tests. I would encourage you all to visit your nearest opticians and get your eyesight checked because #EyeHealthMatters,” she shared in a Twitter post.

Commenting on the appointment, the AOP’s policy director Tony Stafford said: “The AOP would like to congratulate Seema Kennedy on her appointment as the minister for Public Health and Primary Care, which includes responsibility for ophthalmic services.”

“This is a hugely important role – NHS England’s recently published long-term plan puts primary care at the heart of service delivery and makes a commitment to transforming out of hospital care. We look forward to working with Ms Kennedy to ensure to ensure that these changes deliver more and better eye healthcare for patients,” Mr Stafford emphasised.

Image credit: Chris McAndrew/Parliamentary Digital Service