Low Vision Clinic
The Low Vision Clinic is run by the Optometry Department, which is part of the Eye Department (Ophthalmology Directorate). The clinic helps people with a visual impairment (a permanent reduction in vision which cannot be corrected by spectacles or contact lenses) make the best use of their remaining vision. Many visually impaired patients are helped by optical magnifying devices which are provided on a loan basis to suitable patients. The Low Vision clinic also advises on other ways of overcoming visual problems, and where appropriate can put patients in contact with other organisations which may be able to provide further help and support. The clinicians who staff the Low Vision Clinic are Optometrists.
Referral: Patients are usually referred into the Low Vision Clinic by one of the Doctors in the Eye Clinic. Patients may also be referred by their GP, or by their community optometrist (optician).
Where is the Low Vision Clinic?
The Low Vision Clinic is part of the Eye Clinic at the Colney Lane site. We do not currently have a Low Vision Clinic at the Cromer site. Location of the Eye Clinic . Finding the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.
Assessment: The Optometrist conducting the appointment will usually be aware of what eye condition(s) the patient has prior to the appointment. The appointment usually starts with some questions to determine what difficulties the patient is having as a result of their visual impairment. The Optometrist may also ask about the patient’s home circumstances (e.g. do they live alone or with family, and do they live independently or in residential care/sheltered accommodation), and whether they are in employment and/or education.
The patient’s vision will be measured using their current glasses (if they have any). The Optometrist will then measure any long or short sightedness to see if the patient requires glasses. If the patient already wears glasses, the Optometrist will be able to advise as to whether a change of glasses will be beneficial. If new glasses are required, a prescription will be provided to take to a community optician to obtain the spectacles.
If the Optometrist believes that optical magnifying may be helpful they will demonstrate suitable devices to the patient. Vision will often be remeasured whilst the patient is using a magnifying device to measure any improvement in vision. Where the assessment suggests that a magnifying device would be helpful, the device(s) will be provided on an indefinite loan basis. Patients no longer using a magnifying device for any reason should return it to the clinic such that it can be give to someone else.
Advice: Advice may be given on a number of topics including: lighting, contrast, non-optical aids, employment & education issues, and other sources of help & support.
Norfolk County Council – offering advice for people with visual impairment
Norfolk County Council has services for people with a visual impairment.
Opening Times:
| Monday | 09:00 – 15:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Thursday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Friday | 09:00 – 12:30 |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
See a map of the hospital and car parks.
See details of how to get to the hospital by car.
Contact
Low Vision Clinic Tel; 01603 288067