Specsavers customers in Ireland frequently encounter unexpected costs for optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans and lens add-ons during eye exams and frame purchases, contrasting with advertised free PRSI tests, according to reports published by The Journal.
Specsavers Pricing Transparency Scrutinized by Irish Consumers
Ryanair holds a reputation for unexpected charges during checkout, and some opticians give the airline a run for its money, The Journal reported. Customers frequently leave appointments with new glasses feeling they paid substantially more than expected. Google reviews of Irish Specsavers branches from the past year reveal numerous complaints from shoppers charged higher prices for lenses than anticipated or subjected to multiple upsells. One customer at the Dawson Street branch in Dublin reported a €120 charge for lenses added to a two-for-one frame deal without a clear breakdown. At the same time, numerous positive online reviews for the more than 60 Irish branches praise staff friendliness and professionalism. Specsavers responds to negative reviews online to investigate complaints.
Advertising Versus Point-of-Sale Realities for Eye Exams
Price confusion centers heavily on eye tests, particularly for medical card holders and individuals covered by pay-related social insurance (PRSI). Workers paying PRSI and medical card holders are entitled to a free eye test every two years, a benefit Specsavers advertises on large LED screens outside locations like Henry Street in Dublin. However, when reporters visited the Henry Street branch, staff quoted €55 for an eye test, or €25 for PRSI customers. A reporter paying for an eye test at another Dublin branch last month was charged €25, with no option for a free test presented at the point of sale. Customers across Ireland report similar experiences. A reviewer at the Opera Lane branch in Cork city stated that government rules and the company site cite free PRSI treatment, yet branches charge €25 once booked. Another customer in Blanchardstown reported a €25 charge and an added test without prior notification.
OCT Scans Drive the Price Discrepancy
The price difference stems from Specsavers performing an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan as a standard part of its examinations, which incurs an extra fee. While independent opticians and competitors like Vision Express also offer OCT scans, Vision Express charges €10, compared to Specsavers’ €25. Declan Hovenden, head of optometry at TU Dublin, stated that while OCT scans are not necessary in every case, they provide valuable information about eye health. An OCT scan gives optometrists an in-depth view of retinal layers and uses AI analysis to detect conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy at early stages. “There’s nothing to be lost other than the extra cost of it,” Hovenden said, noting he recommends routine OCT for individuals over 40, younger patients with a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, or those experiencing unexplained vision changes. Hovenden added that state funding should eventually cover OCT scans for medical card and PRSI patients.
Company Position on Optional Add-Ons and Frame Prices
Specsavers stated that it offers free standard eye tests for PRSI customers across all Irish stores, defining OCT scans as an optional diagnostic add-on. Customers can choose a standard eye test by itself, and company policy requires store teams to clearly communicate all options before an exam. Regarding frames, Specsavers stated that advertised prices include standard single vision lenses, though staff discuss tailored lens treatments or coatings during dispensing to suit individual prescriptions and lifestyles. “Full transparency and customer choice are central to our approach, and customers can always purchase complete spectacles at the exact price displayed,” Specsavers said.