Partnership Announced to Reduce Cataract Surgery Waiting Times

Health and Social Care has entered into a partnership with Newmedica, a UK provider of ophthalmology services, to significantly reduce waiting times for cataract surgery.

The initiative focuses on addressing the backlog of outpatients and surgical patients requiring treatment for cataracts, driven by increasing demand on existing waiting lists.

As of 8 November there are currently 92 individuals waiting more than a year for an initial assessment.

HSC reports that for those referred for surgery, the waiting times are generally between 6-8 weeks.

This initiative aims to alleviate this issue by offering patients the option to undergo their cataract surgery in Southampton, thereby accelerating the treatment process.

From December, it is expected that up to ten patients per week will be provided the opportunity to travel for surgery.

The arrangement allows for patients to return to Guernsey within 36 hours post-surgery, with subsequent aftercare being managed by local opticians’ practices.

“This is the most cost-effective method to provide patient-centred care in a timely way. We are committed to changing more patients’ lives faster,” said HSC President Deputy Al Brouard.

HSC will cover the NHS costs, flights, and accommodation.

For those patients where off-island treatment is not suitable, or who opt out of this initiative, local treatment options will still be available through the Medical Specialist Group.

The collaboration aims to prioritise patients who have experienced the longest waiting times, thus improving the overall efficiency of the ophthalmology service in Guernsey.

Dr Steve Evans, Chair of MSG, said: “We’d like to reassure patients that the MSG, HSC and Newmedica are jointly working together to ensure patients are seen and treated promptly to achieve the best clinical outcomes.”

Newmedica operates 23 hospitals across England, providing over 74,000 cataract procedures annually and proudly boasts a five-star rating on the NHS Choices website, with 99% of patients likely to recommend their services.