AN MP took a closer look at community eye care services in her constituency.

Bishop Auckland MP Helen Goodman visited Specsavers Opticians in the town to learn more about the Durham Local Optical Committee and the importance of eye checks.

Alongside regular sight tests, optical practices in Bishop Auckland have run enhanced community services for the past year.

This includes treating minor-but-urgent eye problems and a cataract referral service reducing the need for patients to visit GPs or hospital A&E departments and it can help those unable to leave their home unaccompanied.

Ms Goodman said: “It was really interesting meeting with representatives from the Durham Local Optical Committee and hearing about the services now delivered, above and beyond the sight test, in opticians.

"In particular, it was interesting to learn about the Minor Eye Conditions Service, and how people with minor eye problems should visit an opticians in the first instance if they have a problem like a sudden change in vision, or a red, gritty, uncomfortable or watery eye.”

Jane Ranns, who chairs the Durham Local Optical Committee, said: "Since its introduction, over 12 months ago, the Minor Eye Conditions Service has managed to deflect a huge number of patients away from A&E, as well as being a much more convenient service for patients.”