Referral after your eye examination
After your eye check, the high street optometrist may refer you to hospital for a further check by a clinician. The optometrist may have identified something in your eye that needs a more detailed investigation by a specialist. The optometrist will also write to your GP to inform them that you have been referred to hospital for further eye tests, or ask that they contact the hospital to refer you for an eye appointment.
After a few days, you should receive a letter from the hospital, advising that you need to attend the eye clinic for an appointment. There may be a long period of time from being written to and your appointment date. This is because many hospitals have waiting lists. You do have an option to consider booking a private appointment, should you wish, which is sometimes a faster process.
You may feel worried about what happens next and what is wrong with your eyes. Anxiety is understandable; not having much detail about your condition and having to wait for your appointment with a clinician. At this time, you may want to talk to someone about your concerns. You will not have been given a diagnosis at this time but you may be thinking the worst, concerned about your independence and needing emotional support.
Further information and support
Action for Blind People, part of the RNIB Group, has a team of professionals to answer your questions, talk through your concerns, and provide reassurance and support on your eye care journey. You can contact us through the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or contact your local Action team.
