A fight is brewing between optometrists and the State. If you’re a medical card holder, you’re entitled to a free eye examination every two years. The same goes if you’ve made enough PRSI contributions. The tests are managed through the Community Ophthalmic Services Scheme (COSS) and the Treatment Benefit Scheme (TBS). Last year, the HSE paid out over €26 million to optometrists and ophthalmologists under the COSS, which comes under the aegis of the Department of Health. Almost 264,000 eye examinations were carried out, free of charge to medical card holders or their dependents and reimbursed to the optometrist by…

Want to continue reading?

Unlock this article – and everything else on The Currency – with an annual membership and receive a free TUMI Alpha Bravo backpack delivered to your door.

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .