Applying for Spectacles

The Spectacles Scheme provides eligible applicants with single vision lenses through the public healthcare system.

Only specific types of spectacles and lenses are covered under the current scheme. Applicants are advised to read the following information carefully before applying.


Follow this information to obtain this service:


Description

The current scheme covers:

  • Single vision long-distance lenses
  • Single vision short-distance lenses


The following are not covered under the scheme:

  • Varifocal lenses
  • Bifocal lenses
  • High-index (thinner) lenses
  • Alternative frames beyond those offered under the scheme
  • Repairs to spectacles
  • Replacement or changes of lenses after spectacles are issued


Approval for spectacles is valid for a period of one (1) year from the prescription date.

New applications may only be submitted after twelve (12) months from the previous prescription date. For example, if the previous prescription was dated 01/12/2022, the next prescription must be dated 02/12/2023 or later.

Applicants are responsible for confirming with their optometrist that the prescription is correct before spectacles are issued, as changes to lenses after issue are not covered.

Clients are fully responsible for the aftercare, maintenance, and use of their spectacles.


Appointments

The Entitlement Unit does not handle appointment bookings.

Appointments with optometrists at public health centers must be booked directly through Primary Healthcare.

Applicants may also visit a private optometrist at their own expense.


Primary HealthCare (Head Office)

7, Harper Lane

Floriana, FRN 1940, Malta

Email: clientsupportadmin.phc@gov.mt

Tel: +356 21231231 / +356 21222444


Procedure

Applicants must first visit an optometrist to obtain an eyeglass prescription.

The prescription:

  • Must be original
  • Must be fully completed
  • Must be written on the official Department of Health form entitled “PRESCRIPTION FOR FREE SPECTACLES”
  • Is only available through the optometrist


If two pairs of spectacles are medically required under the scheme, such as:

  • Distance spectacles
  • Near-vision spectacles


this must be clearly indicated on the same official prescription form.

Both the white and pink carbon copies of the prescription are required.


Required Documentation

Applications must include:

OR

  • A copy of the applicant’s official and valid Schedule V document (all pages) issued by the Pharmacy of Your Choice (POYC)


Applications must also include:

  • The applicant’s home address where correspondence will be received
  • A contact telephone number


Expired or incomplete documents will not be accepted.


Submitting the Application

Applications must be submitted by post.

The following documents must be posted:

  • Original signed prescription
  • White and pink carbon copies of the prescription
  • Copies of the Pink Form or Schedule V document


Applications should be sent to:

Spectacles

Entitlement Unit

Ground Floor, Ex-Outpatients Block

St. Luke’s Hospital

G’Mangia Hill, G’Mangia


What will the Entitlement Unit provide in return?

If the applicant is eligible under the scheme, a document will be sent by post informing the applicant where to present the prescription and supporting documents to obtain the spectacles.