NHS Wales reports record sight tests

Record numbers of sight tests and examinations for urgent eye care problems were reported between April 2023 and March 2024 following reforms to deliver primary eye care through Wales General Ophthalmic Services (WGOS).

Sight tests paid for by the NHS increased by 6% to 841,000 compared to 2022-23, while 317 practices provided full WGOS services and 42 provided WGOS mobile services.

Just over two thirds (67.8%) of all low vision service assessments were for patients aged 80 years or older with 8,400 low vision assessments carried out in 2023-24, an increase of 3.7% since 2022-23. 

A decrease in the number of ophthalmic practitioners of 7.3% to 941 was attributed to improved data validation than in previous years, while in secondary care, more referrals for outpatient ophthalmology appointments were received than ever before.