If you have had a recent onset eye condition (less than a few weeks) and have a GP registered in the Bradford / Airedale / Craven area, then you may be treated at Airedale Opticians on the NHS for an appointment.

The Bradford, Airedale and Craven Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS) uses the skills of Optometrists in the community to see and treat patients presenting with a minor eye condition. Management will be maintained within the primary care setting for as many patients as possible – avoiding unnecessary referrals to hospital services. 

Examples of treatment may be in the form of recommending over the counter eye drops for conjunctivitis or providing advice on dry eye conditions.

MECS is available to people with new or very recent onset minor eye problems to get the help that they need quickly and easily closer to home. 

MECS appointments will NOT result in the issue a prescription for spectacles.

Under this scheme, any patient who is registered with a Bradford or Airedale area GP (including Craven) can access this local service rather than waiting for a GP appointment or referral to a specialist clinic. 

Patients are able to self-present without referral from the GP.  

Initially, you will need to contact Airedale Opticians by telephone for an initial triage. Please do not use the website contact form or email in this circumstance.

The service is available at both Keighley and Crosshills.