Opticians & Eye Clinics
Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology
The Croft Shifa,Belfield Road,Rochdale, Rochdale OL16 2UP
Overview
Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology is an eye care facility located in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. The clinic operates as part of the Practice Plus Group, a well-established UK private healthcare provider known for offering specialist medical services across multiple disciplines. The facility at The Croft Shifa on Belfield Road serves the local community and surrounding areas with comprehensive ophthalmology services.
The practice provides a range of eye care treatments and diagnostic services, including assessments for common eye conditions, specialist consultations, and procedures. Patients typically access the clinic for issues such as refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and other visual health concerns. The service caters to both routine eye care needs and more complex ophthalmological cases requiring specialist intervention.
As a private healthcare provider, the practice offers flexible appointment scheduling and typically provides prompt access to experienced eye specialists. Patients can expect professional diagnosis and treatment options tailored to their individual needs, with the convenience of a dedicated facility equipped with modern diagnostic equipment commonly found in contemporary eye care clinics.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can book an eye test at Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology in Rochdale by calling 0845 077 4124, visiting the practice, or booking online through their website. It is recommended that adults have an eye test every two years, or more frequently if advised by your optometrist. An NHS eye test checks your vision and screens for eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
You are entitled to a free NHS eye test at Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology if you are aged 60 or over, under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education), diagnosed with or at risk of glaucoma, diabetic, receiving certain benefits (Income Support, Universal Credit, etc.), hold a valid HC2 certificate, registered sight impaired or severely sight impaired, or a prisoner on leave. Ask Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology to check your eligibility.
An eye test at Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology typically lasts 20-30 minutes and includes a visual acuity test (reading letters on a chart), refraction (determining your prescription for glasses or contact lenses), an eye health examination using specialised instruments, a check for eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, and a discussion of your results and any recommendations. Advanced imaging such as OCT scans or retinal photography may be offered for an additional charge.
Yes, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology welcomes children for eye tests. All children under 16 (and under 19 in full-time education) are entitled to a free NHS eye test and an NHS optical voucher towards the cost of glasses. Children should have their first eye test before starting school, or earlier if you notice any concerns. Signs to watch for include sitting close to the TV, difficulty reading the board at school, squinting, or headaches.
Yes, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology offers contact lens fittings, trials, and supplies. Types available include daily disposable, monthly, toric (for astigmatism), multifocal, and coloured lenses. A contact lens fitting appointment includes measuring your eyes, selecting the right lens type, teaching you how to insert and remove lenses safely, and a follow-up check. Contact lens aftercare appointments are recommended annually. Call 0845 077 4124 to book.
Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology may offer urgent eye care appointments for conditions such as sudden vision changes, eye pain, flashing lights or floaters, red or sore eyes, foreign bodies in the eye, and eye infections. Some opticians are part of the Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS), providing NHS-funded urgent eye care. Call 0845 077 4124 to check. For serious eye emergencies, go to A&E.
Yes, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology can fit prescription lenses into a wide range of sunglass frames, including polarised and photochromic (transition) options that darken automatically in sunlight. Prescription sunglasses protect your eyes from UV damage while correcting your vision. Ask about lens tinting options and UV protection standards.
The NHS recommends an eye test every two years for most adults. More frequent tests (annually or as advised) are recommended if you are over 70, diabetic, have a family history of glaucoma, wear contact lenses, have an existing eye condition, or your optometrist has recommended shorter intervals. Children should be tested annually. Regular eye tests can detect problems early, including non-eye conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology aims to be accessible to all patients. Contact 0845 077 4124 to confirm ground-floor access, wheelchair accessibility, and any adjustments for your visit. The practice can accommodate patients with mobility, visual, or communication needs. Home visits may be available for housebound patients in the Rochdale area.
Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology may offer referrals or initial consultations for laser eye surgery (LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE). While opticians do not perform laser surgery themselves, they can assess your suitability, explain the options, and refer you to a specialist laser eye surgery provider. Not everyone is suitable — factors include your prescription, corneal thickness, age, and general eye health.
If you are eligible for an NHS-funded eye test, you may also qualify for an NHS optical voucher to help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Voucher values depend on your prescription strength. Children under 16, people on qualifying benefits, and those with complex prescriptions are most commonly eligible. Ask Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology to check your voucher entitlement.
Yes, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology provides varifocal (progressive) lenses that allow you to see at distance, intermediate, and near without changing glasses. Modern varifocals offer wider fields of vision and smoother transitions than older designs. Premium varifocals reduce distortion at the edges. Your dispensing optician will discuss the different varifocal options and help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Yes, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology can often repair broken or damaged glasses on site, including replacing screws, adjusting frames, replacing nose pads, and re-glazing lenses into new frames. Minor repairs and adjustments are usually free of charge. If your glasses are beyond repair, Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology can help you choose new frames and lenses. Bring your current prescription if you have one.
Some opticians, including Practice Plus Group Ophthalmology, may offer home eye test visits for patients who are housebound or unable to visit the practice due to physical or mental health conditions. Home visits are available free on the NHS for eligible patients. Contact 0845 077 4124 to check availability and arrange a home visit in the Rochdale area.