National Eye Health Week threw out a lot of statistics but one in particular sticks in the mind.
Eye Week’s numbers have always been large. As reported, NEHW’s social media reached a potential 25 million people, 2,500 practices took part in events, while slots were aired on national radio and a large numbers of column inches achieved.
Vision Express’ Jonathan Lawson was in pugilistic mode last week defending its NEHW activities.
His Vision Van (see news) landed the killer punch. Nearly three-quarters of those who were seen in the van needed a new prescription, while one in eight were referred to a GP and 14 per cent hadn’t had an eye exam for 10 years. The real shocker was the 18 per cent seen in the van who had never had an eye exam.
Taking testing to the people is not a new idea. Professor Darren Shickle’s public health team at Leeds University has demonstrated the efficacy of mobile testing in deprived areas in the past.
Other research from Essilor, You Gov and the NHS highlighted lack of understanding on sight and smoking, obesity, blue light, diet, UV and child screening.
Taking eye care to the people is clearly effective and it’s not just deprived areas that can benefit.
