Overburdened GPs

A recent poll by the Association of Opticians (AOP) found that at least 1.35 million of monthly appointments undertaken by GPs are for common eye health conditions. Due to this, the AOP are calling for people to change their first port of call when they are suffering from ocular emergencies in order to reduce the strain on overburdened GPs.

Post-pandemic, it has become increasingly difficult to book a timely appointment with NHS doctors. NHS GP practices are delivering 2 million more appointments a month, so eye-related appointments are adding to the strain that the NHS is suffering under.

Why should you have an optical appointment instead?

It’s become clear that many people don’t realise they can go to their optician for assistance with their ocular emergencies. An optician is a more obvious option because they have the correct specialist tools to magnify the eyes more clearly.

In the poll, it was discovered that younger people are more likely to approach a GP about an eye problem. There are many reasons why this could be an issue. Young people might not associate opticians with eyecare and more likely, prescription glasses.

How do I work out whether to go to an optician or a GP?

Whitby & Co. Optician is part of a multidisciplinary healthcare practice, Fleet Street Clinic; where you can see an optician and a GP simultaneously.

So, if you do have an ocular emergency that develops into a case of needing a GP, doctors are onsite.

Opticians are qualified to treat a broad range of eye problems, so when you’re wondering who to visit about your eye health, consider Whitby & Co. Optician. Book an eyecare appointment with us today.