An SNP MSP has praised the latest figures detailing the high number of free eye tests delivered in Scotland last year.
A total of 574,341 NHS eye examinations were carried out in Greater Glasgow and Clyde in 2024/25 as part of Scotland’s universal eye care programme.
Scotland remains the only UK nation to offer free eye tests to everyone, regardless of age or income.
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Marie McNair, SNP MSP for Clydebank and Milngavie, said: “It is hugely welcome that 574,341 people in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde benefited from free eye tests last year.
“It is also worth noting that the number of home appointments for people who have difficulties leaving their homes was the highest on record, meaning the SNP’s commitment to more personal care at home is being met.”
Across Scotland, a record 2.44 million eye examinations were carried out in 2024/25, up by 17,183 compared to 2023/24.
Around 61,000 of those tests were carried out in people’s homes – the highest figure recorded.
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Ms McNair said: “An NHS eye examination in Scotland is more than just a sight test – it provides a general eye health check that can detect early signs of sight-threatening conditions and some general medical conditions.
“Thanks to the SNP government investing record amounts in NHS frontline services, more people are getting the treatment they need quicker – with an additional 213,000 appointments and procedures being carried out this year.”
The Scottish Government recently introduced a new Anterior Eye Service, enabling independent prescribing optometrists to treat more conditions within the community.
This scheme is expected to free up around 20,000 hospital appointments annually by shifting care closer to home, offering patients greater appointment flexibility and continuity of care.
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