Key Takeaways

• The AOP welcomed the £40 million GP investment while calling for greater integration of optometry into community healthcare

• More than 780,000 potentially avoidable A&E attendances annually involve common eye conditions

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has welcomed the UK Government’s £40 million investment program for general practitioners (GPs) while urging policymakers to expand access to community-based optometry services to reduce pressure on emergency departments.

Adam Sampson, chief executive of the AOP, said the investment recognizes the importance of community care in supporting vulnerable patients during winter. However, he emphasized that optometrists should play a greater role in the government's efforts to shift care away from hospitals.

"We welcome the Government's commitment to protecting vulnerable patients this winter, and the recognition that community-based care is key to easing pressure on Emergency Departments," Mr. Sampson said.

According to the AOP, patients with frailty and chronic conditions are also at increased risk of vision loss and falls associated with poor eyesight. Routine eye examinations can help identify ocular conditions earlier, support healthy aging, and preserve independence.

The organization cited National Health Service (NHS) data indicating that common eye problems account for more than 780,000 potentially avoidable accident and emergency (A&E) attendances annually. Many of these conditions, including minor corneal abrasions, could be managed safely by community optometrists. Although enhanced primary eye care services are available through optical practices in parts of England, access remains inconsistent across the country.

"There is a clear opportunity to ensure that common eye problems can be treated close to home, but the stark reality is that a postcode lottery is blocking patient access to care," Mr. Sampson said.

The AOP is advocating for nationwide access to community optometry services through its Eye Care Everywhere campaign.