Wales boosts fee for low vision service

The fee claimed by low vision accredited practitioners in Wales has been increased this month by £10 and now stands at £77.

Minister for health and social care, Professor Mark Drakeford, announced the rise following negotiations between the Welsh government and Optometry Wales.

Andy Riley, chairman of Optometry Wales, said: ‘The increase in the fee does reflect the value that Welsh government place on eye care in Wales at present. The Low Vision Service in Wales is such a valuable service for patients in Wales.

‘We are also looking forward to helping signpost patients who have or might be experiencing depression, which will form an additional part of the service following published research identifying causal links in depression and sight loss. This research was undertaken in Wales and once again highlights the progress being made in eye care and service delivery in this devolved nation.’