85. The average number of days it takes to get an appointment with an ophthalmologist. Today, it is increasingly difficult to make an appointment to check the state of one's vision and obtain a prescription for the renewal of one's optical equipment.

A decree was published on October 16 to alleviate this problem and relieve overcrowding in ophthalmological practices. mymonture helps you understand this decree and the issues involved.

Prescription validity increased to 5 years for 16-42 year-olds

Previously, prescriptions were valid for 3 years for everyone. However, it remains 3 years for people over 42 and one year for people under 16.

Renewal and adaptation of contact lenses

Since 2007, opticians have been accustomed to adapting optical equipment, with the agreement of the ophthalmologist. From now on, they will also be able to adapt contact lenses. Patients will need to take their valid prescription with them, and the optician will be able to indicate the patient's new adaptation and inform the prescribing doctor. This is an interesting point in the decree, as many opticians specialize in contactology (the study of corneal physiology and lens materials), giving them total mastery of the field.

In cases of urgent need, over-the-counter optical equipment is available

What could be more inconvenient than not having your corrective lenses at hand, and not being able to get new ones without a visit to the ophthalmologist?

To solve this problem, in certain situations, such as when glasses are lost or broken, opticians will be authorized to issue new glasses without a prescription.

Thanks to all the points raised in this decree, the aim is to facilitate access to eye care for the French, by responding to customer requests and freeing up medical time for ophthalmologists.