Cost putting optical patients off eye visits

Almost half of patients in the UK have avoided a trip to their dentist or optical practice for fear of how much their bill for treatment could be.

A study by Sovereign Health Care revealed the top reasons for putting off treatment were worries about money for 20 per cent, with increased living costs including food and utility bills a concern for 18 per cent and reduction in income due to job loss or cuts in benefits holding back 13 per cent.

It was found that 43 per cent had skipped routine tests.

The health care cash plan provider said women put treatments off most, with one in five avoiding trips to the optometrist. Young people aged 18-24 were most concerned about cost – leading to 22 per cent missing eye exams, compare to 15 per cent of those aged 35-44.