Why am I waiting so long for cataract surgery?
We understand how frustrating it can be to wait for cataract surgery, especially when your vision is affecting everyday activities such as driving, reading, working or enjoying time with family and friends.
The good news is that cataract surgery is a highly successful treatment and, when it's your turn to be seen, you'll receive a high standard of care from our experienced team at Newmedica as an NHS patient.
Waiting times for NHS cataract surgery vary across the country and are influenced by several factors, including demand from an aging population.
How are patients in Oxfordshire affected?
In Oxfordshire, demand for cataract surgery is currently greater than the NHS-funded capacity available. As a result, current wait times are approximately around seven months to treatment. Providers such as Newmedica must work within the capacity available and cannot offer NHS treatment sooner than permitted.
Is there an alternative to waiting for NHS surgery?
Some patients choose to have cataract surgery privately at Newmedica, allowing them to be treated much sooner, within just a few weeks. Private treatment also offers additional lens options that may reduce dependence on glasses after surgery. We also offer 0% finance options and accept private medical insurance, helping more people access our private cataract care.
Private cataract treatment starts at £2295 per eye for a monofocal lens which is the same lens you’d receive on the NHS pathway. Private patients can opt for a range of premium lenses which may reduce your need for glasses after surgery. Read more about our private lens options here.
However, private treatment is not the right choice for everyone. If you decide to remain on the NHS pathway, you'll still receive the same expert care and treatment from our clinical team when your appointment becomes available. Please be assured we manage the waiting time efficiently and as soon as it is your turn to be treated we will be in touch.
If you'd like to learn more about private cataract surgery, our team would be happy to discuss the options available to you. Call us on 01865 410 435.