Thousands of cataract patients in Somerset will soon be able to see clearly again, as SpaMedica officially opens the doors to its new Taunton eye hospital.
The brand new, state-of-the-art clinic is based at Portland House on Deane Gate Avenue. It provides cataract surgery and YAG laser capsulotomy for NHS patients in just four-eight weeks, compared to a national target of 18 weeks.
With free parking facilities on site, the hospital also offers a complimentary door-to-door transport service for patients who might otherwise struggle to get to and from their appointments.
Established in 2008, SpaMedica is one of the UK’s leading providers of NHS eye services, with more than 55 hospitals across the country. It has successfully treated thousands of patients across the southwest, with hospitals currently located in Bristol, Exeter, and Truro.
Andy Tucker, who recently received treatment at SpaMedica’s Bristol hospital, posted the following review on the NHS website:
“From the moment we walked into the clinic, we were greeted by very friendly, helpful staff who treated us with kindness and respect. They made us feel very welcome and put me at ease. The operation itself was totally painless and the surgeon made me feel at ease throughout. I would highly recommend SpaMedica to other patients.”
The new hospital, which has already created several jobs for the local community, will help to meet rising demand for NHS eye patient services. More than 8,000 people in Somerset are thought to be living with cataracts, and that figure is estimated to increase by nearly one third by 2032.
Hospital manager Samantha Christiansen said, “We are delighted to introduce our team of skilled surgeons and healthcare professionals to patients in Taunton and the surrounding areas.
“We are committed to improving our patients’ quality of life and helping them to get back their independence after treatment, and we’re pleased to be working in partnership with the NHS to reduce local waiting times for cataract surgery and YAG laser capsulotomy.”
Boasting some of the lowest complication rates nationally, SpaMedica has secured excellent feedback during inspections by the Care Quality Commission. Of the 35 SpaMedica hospitals inspected to date, 13 achieved the top ‘Outstanding’ rating, with a further 22 hospitals being rated as ‘Good’. Over 19,000 patients have awarded SpaMedica a five-star rating on the NHS website.
Hospital manager Samantha Christiansen continued: “Many patients may be unaware that they have the right to choose where they go for their cataract treatment, and we hope we will be a popular choice for local people.”
Patients who wish to be referred to SpaMedica Taunton should speak to their optician or GP.
You may experience one or more of the following symptoms if you have cataracts:
• Blurred vision • Difficulty driving at night • Difficulty watching television and reading • Being dazzled by sunlight and/or bright lights such as the headlights of an oncoming car • Fading of colours • Frequent changes to your spectacle or contact lens prescription
It’s best to see an optician if you think you have cataracts. They will perform a thorough eye check and will be able to refer you for treatment if needed. In England patients can choose which provider they have cataract surgery with.
Your feedback matters to us. Please tell us what you think is missing.
"*" indicates required fields
Δ