Our orthoptists are experts in diagnosing and treating defects in eye movement, visual development and problems with how the eyes work together, called binocular vision. These can be caused by issues with the muscles around your eyes or defects in the nerves enabling your brain to communicate with you eyes. We also work with children and adults of all ages if you are experiencing symptoms such as double vision, reduced vision and misalignment of the eyes.
We hold specialist clinics jointly with the ophthalmology and optometry teams for patients with complex problems which require a multidisciplinary approach.
If you or your child need our orthoptics service, you can get a referral from your GP, optician or health visitor.
Orthoptists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.
We hold clinics at:
- Musgrove Park Hospital- South reception, Ground floor, Duchess Building
- Bridgwater Community Hospital Outpatient department.
- Burnham on Sea War Memorial Hospital Outpatient department
- Chard Community Hospital Outpatient department
- Minehead Community Hospital Outpatient department
- West Mendip Community Hospital Outpatient department
- Wellington Community Hospital Outpatient department
Clinics are held Monday to Friday. Please check you appointment letter carefully for time and location. Please note some services are only available at Musgrove Park.
We can be contacted on 01823 344679 9.30am to 4pm. Outside of these hours an answerphone is available.
School Vision Screening Programme
The orthoptic team run the School Vision Screening Programme for the entire county of Somerset offering vision screening to all children in reception class carried out at school. Information regarding for eligible children will be distributed by schools. This service is commissioned by Somerset County Council in line with Public Health England guidance.
At times there will be undergraduate student orthoptists in the department undertaking clinical practice. All students are supervised by a qualified Orthoptist. If you not wish to be seen by a student please let one of the team know.