The article explores the Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS), a system allowing optometrists to diagnose and manage minor eye issues without refractions. It details how MECS benefits both practitioners and patients, reducing reliance on GPs and providing quicker access to local services. The focus is on conditions treated under MECS, particularly red-eye presentations, including microbial keratitis, episcleritis, scleritis, and anterior uveitis.