asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that a number of health boards, especially the Western Health Board, have had to end their sight-testing schemes for most people, due to budgetary restrictions; the measures, if any, the Government intend to take to ensure that sight-testing is available without undue delay to all who need it; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Sight-Testing Schemes.
140.
All the health boards continue to provide sight-testing through their community ophthalmic services. It is a matter for the individual health boards to apportion the funds available to them between the different services they provide as they see fit. I am aware that some health boards, including the Western Health Board, have discontinued the scheme under which eligible adults had their sight tested by ophthalmic opticians in private practice.