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Written question asked by Luke Evans (Conservative) on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 September 2026. It was answered by Diana Johnson (Labour) on Thursday, 10 September 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Accident and Emergency Departments: Eyes

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps her Department is taking to ensure patients are aware of community optometry services as an alternative to attending Emergency Departments for urgent eye conditions.

Answer

Integrated care boards are responsible for deciding whether to commission enhanced eye care services from high street optical practices to meet the needs of their local populations. This is in line with the 10-Year Health Plan’s commitment to local decision making.

As part of our 10-Year Health Plan, the Department is investing £20 million to equip high street optometrists with the digital tools they need to refer patients faster and more accurately, helping more people get convenient eye care closer to home.

Accident and emergency departments should still be used for genuine emergencies, and we expect patients to be assessed and directed to the service that best meets their needs.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
26135
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Community care Eyes Ophthalmic services Accident and emergency departments
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk