If you have a new or recent problem with your eyes, the NHS Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS) can help.
The service is provided by Primary Eye Care and offers assessment and treatment for a range of eye problems through specially trained optometrists at participating optical practices in Essex.
You do not need to see your GP first. You can contact a participating practice directly to arrange an appointment.
Eye problems MECS can help with
You can use the Minor Eye Conditions Service if you have a new or recent eye problem, including:
- red or sore eyes or eyelids
- dry, gritty or uncomfortable eyes
- eye irritation or inflammation
- watery eyes or a lot of recent discharge from your eye
- new flashes or floaters in your vision
- eye pain
- ingrowing eyelashes
- a recent change or loss of vision
- something in your eye, such as a small foreign body
An optometrist will assess your symptoms and provide treatment where appropriate. If you need care from another NHS service, they can arrange or advise you about the next steps.
Who can use the service?
MECS is available to people of all ages who are eligible for the service.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
You do not need a referral from your GP.
MECS is for new or recently occurring eye problems. It does not replace a routine sight test or ongoing care for an existing eye condition such as cataracts, glaucoma or diabetic eye disease.
How to get an appointment
You can contact a participating optical practice directly to ask for a MECS appointment.
Call the practice before visiting. Do not turn up without an appointment.
When you call, the practice will ask you some questions about your symptoms. This helps them decide how quickly you need to be seen and whether MECS is the right service for you.
Depending on your symptoms, you may be offered an appointment within 24 hours or within a few working days.
Your assessment may be:
- face to face
- by telephone
- by video consultation
Some practices also offer appointments during evenings or at weekends.
Find a participating MECS practice (opens in a new window)If your symptoms are mild
For some mild eye problems, you may be able to get advice or treatment from a community pharmacy.
The optical practice may recommend this after asking about your symptoms.
When to get urgent or emergency help
Some eye problems need urgent medical attention.
Go to A&E or call 999 if:
- you suddenly cannot see from one or both eyes
- you have severe eye pain
- a sharp object has pierced your eye
- a strong chemical has gone into your eye
- you have a serious eye injury
Do not drive yourself to A&E.
Looking after your eyes
Regular sight tests can help identify eye conditions before you notice any symptoms.
MECS is for new or recent eye problems and does not replace your regular sight test.
Find out more about looking after your eyes