Private Cataract Surgery in Bangor: Addressing Record-High Waiting Times.
In recent years, Bangor, like many places across the UK, has seen record-high waiting times for cataract surgery. This has left many patients facing prolonged periods of impaired vision, significantly impacting their quality of life. However, private cataract surgery presents a viable solution to bypass these extensive delays. This blog explores the benefits of opting for private cataract surgery in Bangor and how it can be a game-changer for those awaiting treatment.
Understanding the increase in waiting times
The NHS waiting times for cataract surgery in Wales fail to provide cataract surgery within target times, which means that patients have to endure a longer wait, lasting months and even years.
Coronavirus lockdowns led to the suspension of elective operations, further aggravating the situation. That’s right; the NHS needed to suspend hundreds of thousands of elective operations because of this virus.
Unfortunately, this means that if you want your cataracts removed quickly, you’re going to have to pay for it yourself (which is now more affordable). Another option is you could travel abroad (which I do not recommend).
The advantages of private cataract surgery
An ideal alternative is to consider private cataract surgery in Bangor, Wales. Our clinic in Abergele offers efficient service by experienced staff, helping you avoid prolonged waiting times and regain your vision sooner. Now you can skip the queues, reduce waiting, and start living.
You might have heard the story of the Angley man who was “almost blind” after waiting for cataract surgery in Bangor. Terry Thomas, 72, from Menai Bridge on Anglesey, was told he needed cataract surgery on his only good eye in 20191https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-54557545
Source: Covid: Anglesey man ‘almost blind’ after cataract eye op wait
Mr Thomas initially waited 18 months for the 20-minute operation in February 2021. However, the NHS cancelled his surgery the day it was due and rescheduled for 23 March.
Unfortunately, the UK’s coronavirus lockdown began that day, and the NHS cancelled Mr Thomas’ operation again. They then told him the doctor due to perform the surgery had left.
Mr Thomas’s deteriorating sight loss resulted in him giving his chronically ill wife the wrong medication because he couldn’t read the labels.
Mr Thomas’ GP has contacted the eye service to stress the pressing need for the operation, and Mr Thomas visited Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor in person to explain the situation.
He said the staff he spoke to there were “profusely apologetic” but said: “You’ve got no care. Your consultant doesn’t work here anymore, and we can’t find anyone to do it”.
And he’s not alone.
New data reveals that patients who received cataract surgery in 2021 had waited for an average of nine months or more. In Wales, the number of patients waiting for hospital treatment is the worst ever recorded in Wales, new data shows.
When I write this blog post, you can expect an average waiting time of 18 to 24 months for cataract surgery in Bangor.
So, If you’ve been having trouble getting an appointment for NHS cataract surgery, we may have a solution.
The process of private cataract surgery
The process for private cataract surgery typically involves an initial consultation to assess the patient’s condition and discuss the best treatment options. This is followed by pre-operative assessments to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
The procedure itself is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. Recovery times vary, but many patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days.
Facing long waiting times for cataract surgery can be frustrating and detrimental to your quality of life. Private cataract surgery in Bangor presents a viable alternative, offering shorter waiting times, access to advanced treatments, and personalised care. While the cost is an important consideration, the value of regaining your vision promptly cannot be overstated.
Book a free video consultation
For those considering private cataract surgery in Bangor, the first step is to gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision. To help with this, we offer free video consultations for potential patients.
This consultation provides an opportunity to discuss your specific situation with a healthcare professional, ask questions, and learn more about the procedure, all from the comfort of your home.
Cataracts can be a serious problem if untreated and cause significant vision loss or even blindness. Hence, it’s essential that whoever performs your operation has experience with routine cases and complex ones.
Book a free video consultation today by contacting us online or calling 019 7859 6303
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Mr Dan Nguyen
MBChB MBA FRCOphth FRANZCO
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hello, I’m Dan Nguyen!
I‘m your guide to better vision. In times when long waiting lists and unclear options are the norm, it’s easy to feel stuck and worried about your eye health. Don’t let that hold you back. I’m here to show you that you can skip the endless queues and make real progress. Remember, you’re unique, not just another name on a list. Every patient I see receives top-notch care, tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve had your treatment, you’ll be able to embrace a life that’s vivid, colourful, and just the way you like it. So what are you waiting for? Stop waiting and start living!
