Pre-test checks
At Specialeyes Eyecare, pre-test checks include an OCT scan, digital retinal photography, an eye-pressure measurement and an autorefractor reading. These give the optometrist useful information before your full examination.
Independent optician · Shepherds Bush
Eye tests and OCT scans in Shepherds Bush
Book an NHS-funded sight test if you are eligible, or ask about a private eye examination at Specialeyes Eyecare. Every eye test includes an OCT retinal scan at no extra charge.
NHS & private appointments
OCT scan included with each eye test
West London practice in Shepherds Bush
Your appointment
What happens during an eye test in Shepherds Bush?
An eye test, also called a sight test or eye examination, checks your vision and gives the optometrist an opportunity to assess your eye health. Your appointment includes a discussion of your results and any next steps.
Optometrist examination
Your optometrist will ask about your vision and eye-health history, assess your sight and examine your eyes. The checks used depend on your needs and appointment.
Results and advice
Your optometrist will explain the findings, discuss your prescription if you need one, and advise whether you need further checks or a referral.
Included with every eye test
What is an OCT scan?
OCT stands for optical coherence tomography. It is a non-invasive scan that creates detailed images of structures in the back of the eye. Your optometrist reviews the images as part of your eye-health assessment.
OCT provides additional information about the retina and optic nerve and creates a baseline image that can be compared with future scans. It may help identify changes before you notice symptoms and support monitoring over time. OCT adds to a full eye examination; it does not by itself confirm or rule out every condition.
Read OCT and eye-test FAQsEye health checks
What can an eye test and OCT scan help detect?
A comprehensive eye examination checks your sight and looks for signs of eye conditions. OCT gives a detailed view of retinal and optic-nerve structures, which can help an optometrist spot changes early, including before symptoms are noticeable.
Glaucoma and optic-nerve changes
OCT can image the optic nerve and retinal nerve-fibre layers. Eye pressure and visual-field checks add other information. Raised pressure or an OCT finding alone does not confirm glaucoma, so the optometrist considers the full picture.
Macular and retinal conditions
OCT can help identify and monitor changes associated with age-related macular degeneration, macular holes and diabetic retinopathy. Retinal photographs and examination may also help identify signs of retinal problems, including a possible retinal detachment that needs urgent referral.
Other findings during an eye examination
Your optometrist also checks the lens and other eye structures for signs of conditions such as cataracts and refractive errors including short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism. Some eye findings can indicate wider health concerns such as diabetes or high blood pressure, which may need follow-up with your GP.
An OCT scan and sight test support assessment and early detection.
NHS or private
NHS and private eye tests
Specialeyes Eyecare offers NHS-funded and private sight-test appointments. NHS eye tests are free for people who meet the eligibility rules; not everyone qualifies, and Universal Credit only qualifies when the relevant criteria are met.
Check the current rules on the NHS free eye tests and optical vouchers page. If you are unsure which appointment to book, call the practice before scheduling.
Private eye test fees can change. Please call us for the current price before booking.
Common questions
Eye test and OCT FAQs
How often should I have an eye test?
The NHS generally advises an eye test every two years, or sooner if your optometrist recommends it. Your individual interval may depend on your eye health and circumstances. See NHS guidance on how often you can have a sight test.
Is the OCT scan included in the eye test?
Yes. Specialeyes Eyecare currently includes a complimentary OCT retinal scan with every eye test. Contact us if you would like to confirm the appointment details before booking.
Who is eligible for a free NHS eye test?
Eligibility includes groups such as children under 16, people aged 60 or over, people with diabetes or glaucoma, and people who meet certain benefit or NHS certificate criteria. The rules can depend on your circumstances, so check the official NHS eligibility guidance.
What conditions can an OCT scan help detect?
OCT creates detailed images of the retina and optic nerve. It can help identify or monitor changes associated with glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, macular holes and diabetic retinopathy. Your optometrist interprets the scan alongside other eye tests; OCT alone does not confirm a diagnosis.
Can an eye test find problems before symptoms appear?
Some eye conditions, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, may have few noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Regular eye examinations and retinal imaging can help identify signs early.
How much does a private eye test cost?
Private eye test prices may change. Call us on 020 8743 7552 for the current fee and to choose the right appointment.
Can I get a copy of my prescription?
Yes. Ask your optometrist or a member of the team for a copy of your prescription after your appointment.
Book your appointment
Local eye tests in Shepherds Bush
Visit Specialeyes Eyecare at 128 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush, London W12 8AA. Open Monday to Saturday, 10:00am–6:00pm.
NHS eligibility, private fees and eye-health checks
For free eye-test eligibility, Universal Credit and help towards glasses, read our NHS eye-test and optical-voucher guide. Ask us to confirm private appointment fees before you book.
Our eye-health checks assess findings that may need monitoring or referral. To understand retinal imaging, read what an OCT scan does. For growing children, ask about myopia management.