Can optometrists step up with sight impairment certification?

14 November 2022
Autumn 2022
Low vision Public health Practice

Adrian O’Dowd examines whether it is time for a change that will enable optometrists to certify patients as visually impaired.

As optometrists develop their skills, and the equipment they use in their places of work improves, what new roles could they take on? One question is whether optometrists should be allowed to certify people as sight impaired (SI) and severely sight impaired (SSI), something only carried out by consultant ophthalmologists.

It is estimated that more than two million people in the UK are living with sight loss. Of these, around 340,000 people are registered as SI or SSI (NHS, 2022). It is thought that more than 24,000 people are certified as SI or SSI a year in England and Wales (RNIB, 2018).

Sign in to continue

Forgotten password?
Register

Not already a member of the College?

Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.

benefits of membership

Related further reading

HES experience for pre-registration trainees - virtual low vision session: 12 February 2026

The virtual Hospital Eye Service experience replaces the in-person experience pre-registration trainees would normally have gained in a hospital setting.

Low vision

Smoking, eye disease and smoking cessation strategies

An examination of the links between smoking and eye disease.

Public health

HES experience for pre-registration trainees - virtual low vision session: 23 April 2026

The virtual Hospital Eye Service experience replaces the in-person experience pre-registration trainees would normally have gained in a hospital setting.

Low vision