Chris Bennett: Which way do we go from here?

Retail optics is used to getting short shrift from the consumer watchdog and Which?’s latest trip to the opticians offers little cause for celebration (In Focus).

Last week’s report (News 20.10.17) proclaimed nearly half of the eye examinations conducted in the country are not up to scratch with a trip to the opticians resulting in missed eye disease, incorrect refractions and dangerous spectacles.

In the past Optician has hit back at Which? for assessing practices on sales as opposed to eye care. To its credit Which? has chosen the latter for its latest mystery shopping exercise.

While I wouldn’t expect every optical practice in the country to be deemed exemplary Which? paints a picture of incompetence and lack of care. The result is a report which must leave many consumers wondering if going to the optician is worth it.