We marked National Eye Health Week 2023, in partnership with RNIB, by encouraging MSPs to visit their local optometrists for their free eye exam. Taking part in practice visits were MSPs Stuart McMillan, Anas Sarwar, Jeremy Balfour, Michael Marra, and Colin Smyth, who each visited their local optometrist this week. National Eye Health Week was held from 18 to 24 September 2023 and highlights the importance of good eye health and the need for regular eye tests for all.

Julie Mosgrove, Chair of Optometry Scotland, said:

“We’re pleased to see MSPs visit our member practices to hear more about the fantastic work they do in the local community. National Eye Health Week is a perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the fact regular eye examinations can help to detect not only eye health conditions but also general health conditions, as well as picking up changes in your prescription. These conditions can include glaucoma, but also high blood pressure, strokes and in some cases brain tumours, although this is thankfully rare. Your vision matters, and we recommend that people have an eye examination every two years, unless they are advised by their optometrist to have them more frequently."

James Adams, RNIB Scotland Director, add

“Research shows that sight is the sense people fear losing most. Yet we can be surprisingly complacent about it. We’re here to support anyone experiencing changes in their vision and is worried about what this could mean. We can provide the advice and support so you can make an informed decision about your healthcare. No one should go through an eye condition diagnosis without support.”

Find out more at RNIB news item