Allen's story

Allen, 70, was made aware that cataracts were beginning to form in both of his eyes during a routine eye examination at his local optometrists. Allen’s sight was deteriorating to such an extent that he worried he would no longer be able to drive by the time his license was due to be renewed.

“My partner and I are not ones for spending our retirement at home, we like to keep active and are out and about most days.

“A good number of years ago, I had an OCT scan at my local opticians which revealed cataracts were starting to form in both eyes. As my sight began to deteriorate, I found that things looked foggy and I began to worry that I wouldn’t be able to drive for much longer, which would really have impacted our ability to keep up our busy lifestyle.

“The new clinic in Darlington came at just the right time for me, as when my optician said it was time to refer me for surgery, I avoided a potentially long wait to be assessed by having the opportunity to be referred to Newmedica.

“It only took about three weeks to be seen at the Darlington clinic and then another three weeks to have the first of my eyes treated in Middlesbrough.

“I had a first-class experience and can’t praise the team at Newmedica enough. I was blown away by their care during surgery and afterwards – they even called me the next day to make sure I was ok.

“I have worn glasses for a long time but my sight is so clear and sharp following the surgery, I now only wear glasses for reading and no longer have to worry about not being able to drive because of my sight. It was like being able to see through new eyes.”

Mr Qasim Mansoor, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Clinical Partner for Newmedica Middlesbrough and Darlington, said: “Over the past five years our goal has been to help reduce waiting lists and deliver exceptional eye care to the areas we serve.

Alongside Mr Mansoor, Newmedica Middlesbrough and Darlington is led by consultant ophthalmologist Mr Philip Severn and operational director, Annette Johnson.

To find out more, visit www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/middlesbrough or www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/darlington.

Getting referred to Newmedica

If you think you have an eye condition, you should see your optician or GP for a detailed assessment. They’ll go through all the options available and tell you where you can have your treatment.

The referral process will differ slightly depending on whether you want to be an NHS or private patient. You’ll find all the information you need on our NHS and private patient pages.

Are you a health care professional?
Find out how to refer a patient.