Our manifesto for Scotland

Scotland is the only UK nation where everyone can access NHS-funded eye care. Strong investment in commissioning of services and the championing of optometrists have been at the heart of this success. We call on all political parties to build on this success by continuing to invest in community optometry services that meet patients’ needs across Scotland.

By building on this strong foundation and prioritising community eye care, the next government can further advance optometry services, making sure everyone can get the specialised care they need and deliver better outcomes for patients. Building on what already works will help people get care closer to home, reduce inequalities, improve uptake, and make sure no one is left behind. Patients in Scotland need high-quality, easy-to-access eye care to be sustained and expanded, and optometrists are at the centre of delivering on this ambition.

There are over 1,600 highly trained optometrists delivering almost 2.5 million NHS eye examinations each year. They check vision and eye health, and can also diagnose, monitor, and treat eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma. Many optometrists have additional higher qualifications, including the ability to prescribe medications, and can manage patients with more complex needs.