Pharmacy Daily | No-gap eye checks

BUPA is offering no out-of-pocket AI-enabled eye assessments for its members.

These tests can detect broader health risks, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, helping ease financial strain while promoting preventive healthcare.

Bupa stated that a recent study, published in Public Health Research & Practice, has revealed that 18% of Australians are skipping optical prescriptions or treatments due to cost concerns.

Additionally, 21% of respondents reported avoiding eye tests, despite them being fully covered by Medicare for cardholders.

Adrian Kemp, Director of Bupa Optical & Hearing, expressed concern that many Australians may be living with vision impairments that could affect their work, driving, or learning capabilities.

"Over 13 million Australians have chronic eye conditions, and that number could be higher with many people skipping appointments or leaving their prescriptions unfilled," Kemp noted.