Examinations for urgent eye problems (WGOS 2)

WGOS 1 and 2 services are the main NHS optometry services provided by optometry practices from fixed premises and in people’s homes across Wales.

WGOS 2  Overview

This is optometry care that doesn't always include a sight test for glasses or Patient Management Plan PMP. It has three parts called ‘bands’:

• Band 1: emergency eye care and accepting referrals from other healthcare professionals. 
• Band 2: further examinations to decide if a referral is needed or to prevent one. 
• Band 3: follow-up care after Band 1 or after cataract surgery funded by NHS Wales.

Who is eligible for WGOS 2?

WGOS 2 is available to all patients, regardless of where they reside, providing they meet at least one of the eligibility criteria.

Patients are eligible for WGOS 2 when it is needed, for example:

• if they have new symptoms or signs that need to be checked; or 
• if a healthcare professional refers them for examination; or 
• if their optometrist finds signs or symptoms that need more tests to decide whether they should be referred elsewhere, or to make a more detailed referral; 
• or if a follow-up appointment is required when an optometrist is managing their eye condition.

Patients can get a mobile service at home if they qualify for WGOS 2 and their physical or mental illness or disability makes it impossible or unreasonable for them to get eye care at an optometry practice’s fixed premises.

If you have new eye or vision symptoms, contact your local optometry practice straight away for advice.