Testing of sight - a risk based framework project report
This research is on a risk-based framework for the testing of sight, to understand the risks of the different components of a sight test not being carried out at the same time, by the same person and/or in the same place.
The research was undertaken as part of our commitment from our 2022 call for evidence on the Opticians Act 1989 to consider updating our 2013 statement on the testing of sight.
Overall, the study concluded that the separation of sight testing components by person, time or place may pose some risks for both the NHS and patients. However, in the context of a routine eye examination, the likelihood of these risks occurring was considered to be low.
It also found that tailoring eye care to individuals, for example, through considering patients’ risk profiles more thoroughly, may offer significant advantages in the prevention, diagnosis and management of ocular conditions. Future studies were recommended to determine if a personalised approach based on patient risk assessment could be considered value for money and cost-effective.
