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Written question asked by Sarah Pochin (Reform UK) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 June 2026. It was answered by Stephen Kinnock (Labour) on Thursday, 2 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Medical Devices

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what provisions are being considered to assist people with lupus with the cost of medical appliances, specifically corrective eyewear.

Answer

The Government supports those who need help with the cost of corrective eyewear through National Health Service optical vouchers. These are available to people who meet the eligibility criteria, including those on low incomes, and can be used towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses.

People with lupus are not automatically eligible, but may qualify if they meet relevant criteria. Further information on eligibility can be found at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/free-nhs-eye-tests-and-optical-vouchers/

Patients receiving care through the hospital eye service who require clinically necessary expensive lenses may be entitled to support through the Hospital Eye Service maximum charge scheme. The current maximum charges are £75.85 for a single vision lens, £123.34 for any other lens types, and £61.77 per contact lens. Patients entitled to an NHS optical voucher can use it to offset these costs.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
13034
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Costs Ophthalmology Medical devices Systemic lupus erythematosus
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk