The hospital Optometrist and Orthoptist have carried out a thorough assessment of your child’s vision and determined the appropriate prescription required for your child.
If you have any questions or concerns about the prescription, please contact your Orthoptic department directly and we will discuss this with you.
Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle 01228 814791
Workington Community Hospital 01900 705076
West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven 01946 693181 ext 24292
It is not uncommon for children to take time to adapt to glasses when they are first prescribed. The prescribing optometrist will advise on adaptation when they issue the prescription.
Where do I get spectacles?
Take your child and the Hospital Eye Service (HES) Prescription and Voucher to a local Dispensing Optician or Optometrist. They will take measurements and help you to choose spectacles that fit properly. It is against the law for anyone else to supply spectacles for children.
Try somewhere close to home because you might need regular help with broken or lost spectacles. There is no need for another eye examination.
How much do I have to pay?
The HES Voucher should cover the cost of a standard frame and standard lenses. Sometimes extra charges are made for branded frames, or special lenses. Charges vary so check how much extra you may be asked to pay.
Usually only one HES Prescription Voucher will be issued. Future spectacle vouchers will only be given if there is a clinical need to change the spectacles.
How do I know if the spectacles fit?
The person who supplies the spectacles will help you choose a suitable frame and ensure they fit well. The frame should be snug but not tight. It should not leave red marks on the nose, face or behind the ears. The sides should not be too long and the frame should not slip down.
Go back to the practice where you got the glasses from to have them adjusted if you notice any of these problems.
Lost, broken or bent?
Replacements, repairs and adjustments may be required. These should be done by the practice that made the spectacles. Repairs, replacements and adjustments are usually free but if you paid extra for a branded frame, tinted or thinner lenses, there may be a charge.
You will be asked to sign a pink GOS4 repair form to claim a free repair. The hospital does not issue spare, repair or replacement vouchers.
What next?
Your child should wear the spectacles as instructed by the hospital until their next appointment at the Eye Clinic, usually within 2-4 months. Bring the child’s spectacles to every hospital appointment. The Orthoptist will check your child’s vision and spectacles to see all is well and give advice on further management. The Orthoptist will then advise when the next eye exam is needed.
Confidentiality
‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.
For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:
Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961
Feedback
We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:
pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818
If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:
complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302