Experts are urging the NHS to publish clearer data on its waiting lists for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) follow-up care to better understand demand and improve patient outcomes.
6th February, 2026
Newmedica, which provides NHS and private AMD services across England, says that open reporting would enable smarter health service planning and help prevent avoidable sight loss as AMD cases rise.
'As it's AMD Awareness Month in February, it's the right time to renew calls for more transparent recording and sharing of NHS waiting list data for AMD follow-ups. Better data will drive improved planning and help save sight,’ says consultant ophthalmologist Rupal Morjaria of Newmedica Leicester.
An expert in macular degeneration, she adds: ‘The number of people with late AMD is set to increase by 24.4% in the coming years, according to the UK Eye Care Data Hub. It underlines why action is needed on this issue.’
She also stresses the importance of the entire eye health sector working together to meet this challenge, harnessing its collective expertise and capacity. ‘Collaboration between optometry and ophthalmology is essential.
‘Community optometry is central to our sector’s collective response. Our primary care colleagues do an amazing job caring for patients, often picking up AMD during regular eye examinations, before referring on to secondary care experts such as Newmedica. I would like to thank them and recognise their expertise.’
Ms Morjaria adds: 'Newmedica delivers excellent AMD care across England, offering anti-VEGF treatments for wet AMD and using cost-effective biosimilars to save the NHS money. We deliver outstanding care and provide patient choice through our NHS and private services.
‘We are helping to drive innovation around dry AMD treatment and research with the Sight Research UK charity as well. Newmedica is part of the solution. We will also continue to champion patients and the power of collaboration in our engagement with policy makers.’
