In Focus: Steering Welsh patients away from GPs to opticians

A new initiative in Wales has encouraged patients to book an appointment at a local optical practice rather than a GP when they have an emergency or problem with their eyes.

The board said skilled optometrists were available to offer advice and treatment instead of contacting a GP or attending A&E and highlighted the value of optometrists in the community and how they strived to do far more than help patients select spectacles.

It noted how optometrists can handle emergency treatments, such as minor eye injuries including objects in the eye, as well as being able to detect and treat various eye conditions.