Cornwall opticians are reminding people about the eye-health services they provide on behalf of the NHS which can save unnecessary trips to a GP surgery or to a hospital emergency department.

High street optometrists form part of primary care by being the first point of contact for a range of sudden onset eye conditions or concerns, in the same way that GPs cover broader aspects of health.

Staff can detect and manage a range of eye conditions, including red eye, dry eye and floaters in the vision. Help with more complex conditions is discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Lucy Eva, Specsavers Redruth store director, says community opticians play a key role in alleviating the burden on NHS staff.

She said: “Regular eye tests with your optician, at least once every two years, are vital to keep on top of your overall eye health and to detect signs of any serious conditions earlier when they are more treatable.

“But aside of maintaining that good eye care routine, minor eye issues such as conjunctivitis or dry eye, can crop up at any time.

“Our message is clear - if your eyes aren’t feeling right, an optician should always be your first port of call. Don’t just assume you need to go to your hospital or GP, especially at this time when the NHS is under unprecedented pressure.

Where services are provided on behalf of the NHS, there is no cost to the customer. Appointments can be booked at short notice, with availability seven days a week.

Anyone experiencing pain, discomfort, redness, sudden changes or flashes of light in their vision, among other symptoms, is encouraged to contact their opticians in the first instance.