I was referred to an optician by my doctor as a first stage of diagnosing the cause of headaches. Nicola, the optician, gave me the most comprehensive eye test I'd ever had lasting 45 mins and said I'd need a follow up appointment to dilate my pupils, the first available being in 9 days time. Next morning she rang me to say she'd had a cancellation and could do my follow up in 45 mins if I was available. I was and the examination was carried out with a referral to the local ophthalmic department as a precaution. I'd recommend this practice to anyone.