Eye Examinations in Worcester
If you are looking for an eye test in Worcester, Actons Opticians provides private and NHS eye examinations from our independent city-centre practice. Your appointment is carried out by Victoria Merrett, who checks your vision, assesses eye health, discusses any symptoms and explains the results in plain English. Appointments are arranged by telephone on 01905 22156 or through our contact form. An eye examination is not only for new glasses. It can help identify changes in your sight, monitor existing concerns and guide decisions about spectacles, contact lenses or onward care. Whether you are a long-standing patient or visiting us for the first time, we allow time for careful listening and personalised advice.Why choose an independent optician?
As an independent optician located in Worcester, Actons Opticians is able to focus on individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all process. Your examination is tailored to your age, lifestyle, work, hobbies and medical history. We can also talk through frame choices, lens options and contact lenses if your prescription or daily routine changes. Personalised care also means you have the opportunity to ask questions. Please mention headaches, fluctuating vision, glare at night, dry eyes, family eye conditions or medicines that may affect your eyes. Small details often help your optometrist decide which checks are most appropriate.Private and NHS eye examinations
Actons Opticians offers private eye examinations for patients who want a routine sight test, updated prescription or detailed advice about visual comfort. A private appointment is suitable if you are not eligible for an NHS sight test or prefer to arrange your care privately. NHS eye examinations are available for eligible patients. Eligibility can depend on factors such as age, certain medical conditions, benefits or other NHS criteria. See our NHS Eye Examination Eligibility page for the main qualifying groups and what evidence you may need to bring. If you are still unsure whether you qualify, contact the practice and the team can advise you.Which appointment may suit you?
Children’s eye examinations
Children do not always realise that their vision is blurred, especially if one eye sees better than the other. We provide calm, age-appropriate eye examinations and explain everything clearly to both children and parents. For more information, including when to book and what to expect, visit our Children’s Eyecare page.What happens during an eye examination?
Our resident optometrist, Victoria, will begin by discussing your eyesight, health and any concerns. The examination may include reading letters or symbols, checking your current prescription, assessing how the eyes focus and work together, and examining the front and back of the eyes.

Our consulting room and eye examination equipment at Actons Opticians in Worcester.
You may be asked about driving, computer use, close work, outdoor activities and previous eye problems. If a prescription is recommended, we explain what it means and how it may help. If glasses are needed, the team can guide you through suitable frames and lens choices without pressure. We can also advise about contact lenses where appropriate. Our guide to long-sightedness, short-sightedness and presbyopia explains some of the common prescription terms you may hear.OCT Eye Scans
An OCT scan creates detailed cross-sectional images of the retina and optic nerve, allowing structures at the back of the eye to be examined in greater detail. It is available to both NHS and private patients and can be useful when a closer view or a detailed record for future comparison would add valuable information. OCT is carried out alongside, rather than instead of, the standard eye examination. Victoria will explain what the scan involves, whether it may be helpful for you and any additional fee before you decide. Find out more about OCT eye scans.Time to talk things through
Your appointment is not rushed. We allow time for the checks that are appropriate for you, as well as time to discuss symptoms, ask questions and understand the results. If you have more complex concerns, mobility needs or anything that may affect the examination, please mention this when booking.Urgent eye concerns
If you develop a recent red eye, sudden flashes or floaters, new pain, loss of vision or another urgent concern, contact the practice promptly. Read our urgent eyecare guidance for information about NHS CUES and when another service may be more appropriate.Eye examination FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need an eye examination if my vision seems fine? | Yes. An eye examination checks both your sight and the health of your eyes, including changes you may not have noticed. |
| Can I have an NHS eye examination? | You may qualify depending on your age, health or benefits. Check NHS eye examination eligibility |
| Will I be rushed? | No. We allow time for the examination, questions and a clear explanation of the results. |
| Is an OCT scan included? | OCT is an optional additional scan for NHS and private patients. Any extra fee will be explained before you decide. |
| What should I do about a sudden eye problem? | Contact the practice promptly. We can advise whether NHS CUES urgent eyecare or another service is the appropriate next step. |
Would you like to arrange an eye examination?
Contact Actons Opticians to arrange a private or NHS eye examination, or ask which appointment may be most suitable.