Portsmouth residents now have easier access to high-quality NHS eye care with the opening of a new SpaMedica hospital. This state-of-the-art facility, located at Shore House in North Harbour Business Park, promises to reduce waiting times for cataract surgery and YAG laser capsulotomy to just four to eight weeks—well below the national target of 18 weeks.
Addressing Growing Demand for Cataract Surgery
Cataracts affect nearly 30% of people aged 65 and older, and with over 31,000 Portsmouth residents approaching retirement age, the new hospital will meet the increasing demand for eye treatments. SpaMedica Portsmouth is one of 57 hospitals operated by SpaMedica across the UK, all committed to providing friendly, welcoming environments for patients and their families.
Convenient Services for Local Patients
The new facility also offers additional conveniences, including a free door-to-door transport service for patients who have difficulty traveling to their appointments. Complimentary parking is available on-site, making it easier for patients to access the care they need.
Patient Testimonials Highlight Positive Experiences
Local resident Gloria, who recently underwent cataract surgery at SpaMedica’s Southampton location, shared her positive experience. “I was very nervous before my first cataract surgery, but the staff were incredibly kind and informative during both my assessment and the surgery day,” she said. “From the day I saw my optician to the day of surgery, it took just under four weeks. I couldn’t ask for more and look forward to having my second eye done.”
Reputation for Excellence in Eye Care
SpaMedica has built a strong reputation for its quality of care, with every hospital inspected by the Care Quality Commission receiving a ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ rating. Stuart Campbell, the hospital manager at SpaMedica Portsmouth, expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, saying, “It’s fantastic to open our doors in Portsmouth and work in partnership with the NHS to help reduce local waiting times and deliver the best possible care to patients on the south coast.”
Cataract Surgery: A Path to Improved Quality of Life
“At SpaMedica, we know how transformative cataract surgery can be,” Campbell continued. “Our goal is to ensure patients feel completely at ease during their treatment. It’s not just about improving vision—we’re committed to helping patients regain their independence and quality of life as quickly as possible.”
How to Access Treatment
NHS patients diagnosed with cataracts or posterior capsule opacification can request a referral to SpaMedica Portsmouth through their local optician or GP.
Understanding Cataracts: Common Symptoms
If you suspect you have cataracts, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty driving at night
- Difficulty watching television or reading
- Sensitivity to bright lights, such as headlights
- Fading of colors
- Frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s advisable to see an optician for a thorough eye examination. In England, patients have the option to choose where they receive cataract surgery, ensuring they can access the best care available.
Conclusion
The opening of SpaMedica Portsmouth marks a significant improvement in the availability and quality of eye care for residents of the city. With shorter waiting times and a strong emphasis on patient comfort and convenience, this new hospital is set to make a lasting impact on the community’s health and well-being.
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