Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Medical Equipment
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what provisions are being considered to assist people with lupus with the cost of medical appliances, specifically corrective eyewear.
Answered by Stephen Kinnock
The Government supports those who need help with the cost of corrective eyewear through National Health Service optical vouchers. These are available to people who meet the eligibility criteria, including those on low incomes, and can be used towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses.
People with lupus are not automatically eligible, but may qualify if they meet relevant criteria. Further information on eligibility can be found at the following link:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/free-nhs-eye-tests-and-optical-vouchers/
Patients receiving care through the hospital eye service who require clinically necessary expensive lenses may be entitled to support through the Hospital Eye Service maximum charge scheme. The current maximum charges are £75.85 for a single vision lens, £123.34 for any other lens types, and £61.77 per contact lens. Patients entitled to an NHS optical voucher can use it to offset these costs.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →