Minor Eye Conditions

The practice offers a wide range of services which you can read about below

Minor Eye Problems?

If you have a recent problem with your eyes - such as sore eyes, red eyes or visual disturbance - you can be assessed and treated by our local Minor Eye Conditions Service. 

This is a free NHS service 

image depicting eye problem

What is a Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS)?

Conditions that can be seen under the service include:

  • Red eye or eyelids
  • Dry eye, or gritty and uncomfortable eyes
  • Irritation and inflammation of the eye
  • Significant recent sticky discharge from the eye or watery eye
  • Recently occurring flashes or floaters
  • Ingrowing eyelashes
  • Recent and sudden loss of vision
  • Foreign body in the eye

Please note, this is not a sight test

Also, if you have a major eye condition that is being regularly monitored by your optometrist or hospital eye service, this will not be covered by this service; for example, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma

Where should I go?

Registered optometry practice (optician) offering the service is listed on the back of this leaflet. An appointment will normally be required, so telephone first. Appointments are available during normal working hours and weekends. we may not have an optometrist available every day, but if we don’t, we will be able to find you an alternative appointment day.

Who is this service for?

If you are registered with a Newham GP and are ten years or older you can use this NHS funded service. Children under 16 years must be accompanied at their appointment by an adult.

How do I book an appointment with the service?

To make an appointment, call eye clinic on 020 8181 9171. You will be asked some questions about your symptoms in order to assess how quickly you need to be seen by the service, which will be within 24 hours in urgent cases and within a few days for routine appointments.

Please take your glasses and a list of your current medication with you to the appointment. The optometrist may put drops in your eyes to enlarge your pupils in order to get a better view inside your eyes.

You should not drive until the effects of these drops have worn off, which may take a few hours.

If your condition is more serious, the optometrist will book you an urgent appointment at a hospital eye clinic. If you need a routine appointment with a hospital, the optometrist will organise this for you.

You may also be advised to make an appointment with your GP if your eye condition is relation to your general health.

Address: Forest Gate Eye Clinic 47 Woodford Road, London E7 0DJ