Contact lens Assesments/Prescriptions

sinbin_72

I really would like to know where I stand with my position in law in relation to asking for my contact lens prescription even though my optician wants me to book another assesment 6 months after my initial contact lens assesment before issuing the prescription.

I am so confused by it all. This is what happened to me:


I went to Dolland & Aitchison for an eye test and contact lens assesment less than 6 months ago.

I got a 3 months supply of lenses from them with astigmatism correction - they cost £75 for 3 months.

I normally wear my lenses slightly longer than the given period of time and never have any problems with eye infections or anything else as I clean them throroughly and never sleep in them over wear them longer than 8 hours per day.

I went to order some new lenses with an online retailer but they wanted my contact lens prescription. I only went with the Online retailer because they charge £22.75 instead of £75 for the same lenses.

I called D&A for my prescription and the woman told me that she coldn't let me have it until I see the optician again. She then wanted me to hand over another £40 for the assesment of wehich I already paid money for less than 6 motnhs ago. I refused to pay it and she said I couldnt have the prescription.

I tried going to another optician who said they would do the test for free but they said that the prescription they would give me would not be valid for the frist 6 months.

I spoke to another optician that wanted £50 for an assesment but would refund the money if I bought my lenses from them. I asked for the prices and they charged the same money as D&A.

It seems whatever way I turn the Opticians in this country are all geared up to earn as much money out of you as they can. I really hate how they pretend that their policies are for the publics protection when we all know it's to get as much cash out of you as possible before you leave them and get yor lenses from a cheaper online supplier.

Has anyone else had this kind of problem and where do I stand in walking into D&A and demanding my prescription even though they say they need to do another check?


Please help!!

nedmundo

The optician has to be satisfied that the lenses are suitable for your eyes and not causing any adverse affects - that's for your benefit and their legal protection. They can only do this be taking the time to check your eyes and contact lenses in person - it is not unreasonable for them to charge to do this. How else do you propose they cover their overheads?

Having said that, upon completion of the fitting, they are legally obliged to provide you with a written specification of your lenses. The duration of the fitting is not normally longer than 3 months. So stalemate really, they need to see you before they can issue your prescription and you will have to pay for that appointment, which is only right and proper.