AOP highlights need for improved eye services for disabled people

The need for improved eye health services for patients with learning disabilities has been highlighted by the Association of Optometrists (AOP).

A statement issued by the AOP stated that there are barriers that many people with learning disabilities may face in accessing diagnosis and treatment. These include a perception among carers and parents that those with learning disabilities wouldn’t be able to have a sight test if they cannot read, diagnostic overshadowing and the stress of visiting an unfamiliar setting.

The statement has detailed what the AOP thinks the NHS should do to improve these services, such as providing sight tests in all special schools and making NHS funded tests available to everyone with a learning disability.