Opticians
Opticians carry out tests on your eyes to check the quality of your eye sight and look for signs of problems that may need treatment.
Opticians provide an eye health check that can spot issues with vision, general health problems and signs of eye conditions .
Optometrists carry out eye tests to check the quality of your sight. They look for signs of eye disease that may need treatment from a doctor or eye surgeon and prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses.
Dispensing opticians fit glasses and contact lenses, but do not test eyes. They can give you advice on types of lens, such as single-vision or bifocal, and help you to choose frames.
It is recommended that you get your eyes tested every two years or more often if advised by your ophthalmic practitioner or optometrist. Some people are entitled to free NHS sight tests and optical vouchers to help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses.