Become the first port of call.

The article discusses the need to reposition optometry as a clinical profession rather than merely a retail one, highlighting recent initiatives by Boots Opticians to enhance clinical care through the installation of ultra-widefield retinal imaging devices. It emphasizes the importance of thorough retinal examinations, particularly for asymptomatic patients, and notes that many eye care issues often go undetected in routine practice. The article also references a report from the College of Optometrists, which points out the lack of funding for urgent eye care services in England and suggests that community-based optometry could significantly reduce the burden on GPs and hospitals. The author calls for increased awareness and advocacy for the role of optometrists in delivering eye care services. [Extracted from the article]