This webpage is currently under development and further content will be added in due course.
NHS eye examinations are provided to patients in Scotland under General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) arrangements. Under section 26 of the National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978, as amended, each Health Board in Scotland has a duty to make arrangements with specified individuals (optometrists and ophthalmic medical practitioners) and body corporates regarding GOS provision in the relevant Health Board's area.
The main legislation for GOS in Scotland is the National Health Service (General Ophthalmic Services) (Scotland) Regulations 2006, as amended.
Under GOS in Scotland, there are two types of eye examinations: primary eye examinations and supplementary eye examinations. Further guidance is also available on the first port of call responsibility that community optometrists have under GOS.