Specialist hoist makes eye surgery more accessible

An eye clinic in Newcastle has invested in a specialist hoist to help any patients that might otherwise struggle to get into the operating chair.  

Newmedica Newcastle, located in Balliol Business Park, treats NHS and private patients for a range of eye conditions, including undertaking cataract and oculoplastic surgery. 

Amanda Bargewell, Newmedica Newcastle’s Operations Director, said: ‘We always go above and beyond to help patients with complex health needs, and this equipment ensures that our operating theatre is accessible to all. 

‘We already have lift access up to our operating theatre, but the hoist means that patients who use a wheelchair and cannot weight bear can be comfortably transferred into the reclining operating chair, which can then be laid flat for surgery.  

‘Our experienced team have undergone extensive training to ensure they are ready to welcome any patients who require the use of our hoist. 

‘We know that the prospect of surgery can be daunting for some, so it is important to us to make our patients as comfortable as possible, from investments in equipment like this or even something as small as worry pebbles for patients to hold during their surgery. 

‘We support the NHS in helping to clear ophthalmology waiting lists and this investment means that even more NHS patients can choose to be referred to Newmedica.’ 

Newmedica Newcastle is owned and run by consultant ophthalmologists Mr Gerard Ainsworth, Mr Ayad Shafiq and Mr Nicholas Wride alongside Operations Director, Amanda Bargewell.