You can book the appointment yourself, through a self-referral. Please call us directly to make an appointment. Please do not visit us without first making an appointment. When you telephone us, the team will ask you some questions about your symptoms to assess how quickly you need to be seen.
As well as providing routine care for our patients, Brownbills Optometrists are proud to be members of the East Kent Minor Eye Conditions Service.
This community service provides assessment and treatment for individuals with recently occurring minor eye problems. It is available to people of all ages. Please note that children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult at their appointment.
You can arrange a MECS appointment with us if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Red eye or eyelids
- Dry, gritty or uncomfortable eyes
- Eye irritation and inflammation
- A lot of recent discharge from the eye or watery eye
- Recently occurring flashes or floaters
- Painful eye
- Ingrowing lashes
- Recent and sudden loss of vision
- Foreign body in the eye
How can I make an appointment?
Depending on your symptoms, and appointment availability, we will aim to see you within 24 hours or a few working days. Your consultation may take the form of a telephone, video or in-person appointment.
If your symptoms are mild, we may advise you to contact your local pharmacist for simple treatment and over-the-counter medication. We do not offer MECS appointments outside of normal clinic hours.
Eye Conditions not treated under MECs
If you have any of the following conditions you must go directly to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department:
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Considerable eye pain
- Significant trauma, such as a penetrating injury or lacerations to the eye(s) or lid(s)
- Chemical injury or burns
- Problems arising from recent eye surgery
In addition, if you have an eye condition that is being monitored regularly by your optometrist or hospital eye service, such as cataracts, glaucoma or dry eye, this will not be covered by MECS.
Require a MECS?
Contact us about the Minor Eye Conditions Service today