FAQ’s

We appreciate that it may be your first time visiting the optician and we’d be happy to answer any of your questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.

How can I schedule an eye exam?

Eye tests can be scheduled here: Book Appointment – Carrick Eyecare or give us a call on 02893 363553.

Where are you located, and what are your business hours?

We are on Lancasterian Street, Carrickfergus on the other side of the street from the fire station/Misha’s country workshop.

We are open Monday – Friday 9:30 – 5:00pm and stay open late on Thursdays until 7pm.

How much does an eye exam cost?

For adults, our eye exams are currently £25. For children under 16, and persons over 65 years of old, there is no charge. You may also be eligible for a free eye examination if you have certain medical conditions. Please get in touch for more information.

How do I know if I’m entitled to my eye exam is free on the NHS?

You may be eligible for a free eye test through the NHS if you fall into one of the following categories:
– Below the age of 16
– Above the age of 60
– Aged 16 to 18 and enrolled in full-time education

Additionally, qualification is possible if you or your partner receive:
– Income support
– Universal Credit (meeting the specified criteria, see www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/UC with a valid HC2 form)
– Income-based Jobseekers allowance
– Tax Credit (listed on a valid NHS Tax Exemption Certificate)
– Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
– Pension Credit guarantee credit
– Possession of a valid HC2 certificate

Alternatively, you may be eligible for a free eye test due to certain medical conditions, such as:
– Diagnosed with diabetes type 1 or type 2
– Glaucoma
– Over 40 and a parent/sibling/child of an individual with or previously had glaucoma
– Prescribed complex lenses under the NHS optical voucher scheme
– Registered blind/partially sighted

If none of these circumstances apply to you, the eye examination fee is £20.00. All appointments should be booked in advance by calling us at 028 9336 3553 or via our website here: www.carrickeyecare.com/book-appointment

How often should I have an eye exam?

Eye exams are recommended every two years but it is recommended every year for under 16’s, diabetics and those with glaucoma or a family history of glaucoma.

I’ve been with another Optician. Do I tell them I’m leaving or can I just come to you?

If you want to move opticians to Carrick Eyecare, nothing is needed. We can check the health of your eye and get a clear understanding of your overall eye health.

Book an appointment here and we look forward to seeing you.

How do I choose the right frames and lenses?

We are always here to help! Our team has extensive experience helping patients choose frames and explain the benefits and features of our lenses.

Alternatively, if you’d like to look by yourself, feel free! There’s no time limit so you have plenty of time to have a good look!

What lenses do you offer?

Single vision, bifocal, varifocal and plenty of other specialised lenses. We aim to do our best for each patient so we’re happy to source lenses if need be. Give us a call on 02893 363553.

How much are your frames?

Our frames range from £49 – £189. You can also choose a second pair half price when the prescription is the same in the first pair.

We also have options for a free pair with an NHS voucher.

What brands do you stock?

At the moment we love to support small businesses within the UK so two of our most popular designers are Wolf Eyewear & Mint Eyewear/Mint Magnetics. We also have high end designer brands like Superdry, Rayban, Landrover, Bulget & Woody’s eyewear.

Can I order contact lenses online?

We’re working on our patients being able to order their contact lenses online!

At the moment we can take orders over the phone so please give us a call on 02893 363553. If you’d like a call back, leave us a message on our voicemail service.

Do you offer hearcare services?

Yes we do! We have partnered up with Audiocare who have clinics all over Northern Ireland. They have regular weekly clinics with us where they offer ear wax removal & hearing tests all completed by a qualified Audiologist.

Hearing tests are currently free with Audiocare for over 65s. It is £50 for under 65’s. Ear wax removal is £69 and this is for one ear or both.

You can book via the audiocare website: www.audiocare.co.uk or give us a call on 02893 363553.

What payment options are available?

We can take full payment up front or you can leave a deposit.

We accept cash and also take all major credit/debit cards. Alternatively, if you’ve left a deposit, you are welcome to pay off your glasses.

How can I maintain good eye health?

An eye exams will help decide what your current eye health is like but if you’d like more tips check out this NHS article: How to keep your eyes healthy and protect your vision | Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (hey.nhs.uk)

What should I do in case of an eye emergency?

In the case of an eye emergency please give us a call on 028 9336 3553 and we will aim to book you in the same or next day depending on your symptoms.

What services do you offer?

We offer eye exams for everyone, glasses repairs and adjustments, emergency appointment, contact lens hearing tests and wax removal.