Free NHS home eye tests: who qualifies

Who qualifies for a free NHS home eye test

You may be eligible for an NHS-funded home eye test if:

• You qualify for a free NHS sight test
• You cannot leave home unaccompanied
• Leaving home is distressing or unsafe
• You live in residential care
• You need help communicating

The underlying NHS rule is that you are unable to leave home unaccompanied because of physical or mental illness or disability, and that you also meet the general criteria for a free NHS sight test. HomeSight coordinators check both in a two minute phone call before anything is booked, so nobody is left guessing.

What the NHS home eye test includes

• A full one-hour examination in your own home
• Retinal photography, included
• NHS-voucher frames at no charge
• Home fitting and delivery of your glasses
• A GP letter where something needs following up

What the optometrist checks

A HomeSight home eye test is a full eye examination, not a quick vision check. Alongside your prescription, a GOC registered HomeSight optometrist screens for glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, signs of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, and dry eye and corneal health. Several of those show no symptoms until they are advanced, which is why the test matters even when your sight seems fine.

How the visit runs

Patient history and lifestyle, about 10 minutes. Distance and near acuity, about 10 minutes. Refraction and prescription, about 15 minutes. Internal eye health check, about 10 minutes. Retinal photography, about 5 minutes. Findings and recommendations, about 10 minutes. About an hour in total, at your pace, with a carer or relative present if you would like. Arranging a visit for a relative.

If you do not qualify

A private home eye test with HomeSight is £30 and is the same examination by the same optometrist. Many people who are turned down for NHS funding still cannot easily reach a high street practice, and £30 is what it costs to bring the practice to them. More about home eye care.

Care home residents

Living in residential care is itself one of the eligibility routes. HomeSight partners with over 300 care homes across the South East and can see several residents in a single visit, with clear reporting to the home after each one. Care home managers should start on the care homes page.

Where HomeSight carries out NHS home eye tests

Across Greater London, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire, plus selected surrounding areas. See areas we visit.

Frequently asked questions

Is the NHS home eye test really free?

Yes, if you meet the criteria. There is no call-out fee and no charge for the examination.

Do I need a referral from my GP for an NHS home eye test?

No. HomeSight checks eligibility directly with you in a short phone call.

How often can I have an NHS home eye test?

Most people qualify for an NHS sight test every two years, and more often when there is a clinical reason. Your optometrist will tell you when yours is due.

What if I already wear glasses?

Have them out for the visit. The optometrist will check the current prescription against the new one.

Are the NHS voucher frames really free?

NHS-voucher frames are supplied at no charge. You can pay to upgrade if you want something outside the voucher range.

Who decides if I am eligible?

The criteria are set by the NHS, not by HomeSight. A coordinator checks them with you before booking.