Wokingham’s MP has gone to Specsavers to see how local opticians and audiologists are making a difference to patients, the community and supporting the NHS.
Clive Jones chatted to the Specsavers team in the Wokingham store about the expert eye and hearing care services they provide to the local community.
Sean Caskey, optometry director at the Wokingham store, said: ‘It was a pleasure to welcome Clive, introduce him to our Specsavers team and talk to him about the care we currently provide to his constituents.
‘We discussed the unique partnership model that sees Wokingham – like all Specavers services – owned and run by the audiologists and optometrists who provide expert care to patients, in the heart of their community.
‘Our team offers vital eye and hearing care services, and we are keen to change even more lives through better sight and hearing.
“We are well-placed and have capacity to add NHS care to our hearing offer and would encourage local NHS commissioners to consider the commissioning of a community audiology service in the Wokingham area that would allow us to test and fit NHS patients with hearing devices, free of charge.’
‘We also discussed the need for a Minor Eye Care Service (MECS) in the area, enabling people to get treatment for minor eye injuries and illnesses directly from local high street optometrists.
“This would be easier and more convenient for patients and reduce pressure on GPs and A&E services. The service is available in other parts of the country but residents in this area of Berkshire are missing out.’
Jones said: ‘I was pleased to visit Specsavers, hearing about what the team already does in terms of serving our community.
“Seeing the technology and clinical expertise in store, and the ability to identify a whole range of health conditions, was a good reminder of how important it is that everyone gets their eyes tested and hearing checked regularly.
‘It was also interesting to learn more about how we could improve access to NHS care in Wokingham by commissioning more community eye and hearing health services.
“Being able to access NHS-funded hearing care and treatment for minor eye injuries and illnesses all under one roof on their local high street could reduce pressure on GPs, hospitals and urgent care services.’
He also heard how Specsavers Wokingham supports community organisations and provides a range of career opportunities for local people.
Milkan Choudhury, retail director at the Wokingham store added: ‘It was a privilege to introduce our local MP to the members of our dedicated team.
“They talked with him about the role they each play in providing clinical expertise, a positive experience of care for patients and our ongoing ambition to further improve access to care for all.’
