Eye Tests

At Visioncare we are an approved NHS eye care provider so can perform eye exams on both a NHS and private basis. An eye exam is more than just checking if you need glasses - it is a thorough and comprehensive eye health examination.Our optometrists have access to hundreds of different tests, which they will tailor to your individual needs. As part of every eye exam we take a fundus photograph – this is picture of the inside of your eye taken using a specialised camera. This is a completely painless process. At every subsequent test another photograph is taken so the optometrist can monitor your eye for any changes. A slit lamp (a specially adapted microscope) is used to assess the front part of the eye – looking for conditions such as dry eye and cataract.We strive to make an eye exam at Visioncare the most comfortable experience possible. We carry out glaucoma screening without the use of the dreaded “puffer”, instead using more recent technology which measures your eye pressure in a different, much more comfortable way. Our use of advanced instrumentation and equipment allows us to play an active part in maintaining the eye health of our patients and allows us to exceed the expectations of our new patients.

After your test

After your examination, should you require spectacles, our team will be able to provide you with all the assistance you could possibly need. We will advise you on the best spectacle lens for your needs and endeavour to help you choose the perfect pair of glasses. We have recently installed a specialised camera to help you compare the look and style of whatever you wish to try on. With well over 500 frames on display we can accommodate any budget!If any issues arise during your test our optometrist will advise you on the best way to go forward – be that treatment or a referral for further investigation.

Home visits

If you are unable to leave your home unassisted we provide home visit eye examinations. If you receive a NHS eye exam this service is provided free of charge. There is also the option to have a private home visit. Our optometrist will call at your home at a pre-arranged time to suit you and will bring all the necessary equipment to perform a full eye examination. They will also bring a selection of spectacle frames should you need new glasses. If you order new glasses these will be hand delivered and fitted for you when ready.

Emergency appointments

If you feel you need urgent care please contact us for advice. We will be happy to see you at short notice and advise you on treatment or refer you for further investigation if necessary.We work closely with local GPs, pharmacists and with hospital eye departments at Altnagelvin and further afield.

Children's eyecare

All children should have regular eye examinations to ensure clear vision and healthy eyes. Do not rely solely on school screening, as this will not always pick up on underlying problems.All U16’s and 16-18 year olds in full time education receive a NHS eye examination. At Visioncare we have specialised equipment for testing young children – it is not necessary that your child knows their letters to have an eye examination.An eye exam can be done at any age – the sooner the better if you feel there are any issues with your child’s vision. All children receive a NHS voucher towards the cost of spectacles should they need them. We have an extensive range of styles for children and teenagers – many of which are available free of charge.