More and more people are choosing private ophthalmology services, such as vision correction in the form of laser and lens replacement surgery, over that of the National Health Service (NHS).
Whilst the NHS funds vision correction services, eligibility is typically means-tested and limited to those with severe or debilitating conditions. Waiting times for slower progressing conditions, such as cataracts, are significant in some areas of the country. If your vision can be adequately corrected with traditional methods like glasses or contact lenses, most of the UK public won't qualify for NHS-funded treatment.
For those who do meet the criteria, such as patients with cataracts, the NHS may not always be the preferred choice for vision correction, due to factors like waiting times, flexibility, or access to advanced practitioners and latest-generation technology.
Read on to understand the benefits of paying for vision correction.
Faster Access to Specialists and Treatment
In the NHS system, patients may have to wait several weeks or even months for cataract surgery due to high demand and limited resources. Prospective patients have found themselves in a “postcode lottery” across the UK, with the wait times in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales significantly greater than in some areas of England, for example.
In the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN)’s Going Private 2024 report 45.5% of people cited that they couldn’t get an NHS appointment quickly enough as their reason for opting for private health care, with 12% of those surveyed said that they went private because their NHS appointments were postponed or cancelled.*[1]
Treatment with private providers such as Optical Express can significantly reduce wait times, enabling patients to schedule surgery sooner. This not only helps to reduce the risks of injuries caused by vision-associated trips and falls for example and to alleviate discomfort more quickly, but also enhances the quality of life at an earlier stage – which has been known to have a particularly vital impact on cognitive health.*[2]
Access to Advanced Technology and Treatments
Private cataract surgery facilities invest in the latest technology and equipment, which can lead to improved surgical outcomes and a more comfortable experience for patients. Advanced Intraocular Lenses used during lens replacement surgery are available in private clinics, offering potential benefits such as complete visual freedom across a wide range of viewing distances, far and near, and improved post-surgery quality of life.
Optical Express has invested over £500 million in its clinics, utilising technology from leading providers Carl Zeiss and Johnson & Johnson Vision—the same innovations that NASA approved for surgery on its astronauts.
Flexibility and Convenience
Flexibility is another significant advantage of private health care. Many private eye care providers offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends, which can be incredibly convenient for those with busy schedules. Appointment times can be made to accommodate your needs, minimising the disruption to your daily life.
Patient Choice
Private health care allows you to have more autonomy when deciding who will be treating you. You can make decisions based on the qualifications, experience and reputation of your optometrist or ophthalmologist. This choice can be especially valuable for those seeking a second opinion, or for complex eye conditions that require a highly specialised approach.
Patients can also receive more extensive options when it comes to selecting an intraocular lens (IOL) for use during private lens replacement surgery. Premium IOLs, such as presbyopia-correcting multifocal or astigmatism-correcting toric lenses, may be available for an additional cost, offering potential benefits such as reduced dependence on glasses or improved visual outcomes in specific situations.
Personalised and Elevated Care
Private healthcare settings prioritise personalised care and attention, with shorter consultation times and a focus on patient satisfaction. This can result in a more tailored treatment plan, thorough pre-operative assessments and comprehensive post-operative care.
This commitment to high-quality care is driven by competition and patient demand, which encourages private providers to maintain high standards in all aspects of service delivery, from clinical care to customer service. Patients often report higher satisfaction levels with private eye care, citing the attentive staff, shorter wait times and overall better care experience.
Overall, the combination of shorter waiting times, choice of surgeon and hospital, access to advanced technology, personalised care, and additional amenities can contribute to a potentially improved patient experience in private cataract surgery compared to the NHS.
The Advantages of Private Vision Correction Surgery
Private vision correction surgery offers significant advantages, including shorter waiting times, advanced technology, personalised care and greater patient autonomy. Fast access to treatment, is correlated with a reduced risk of surgical complications. With flexible scheduling and customised lens options, it provides a convenient, efficient and patient-centred approach for optimal visual outcomes.
While private vision correction surgery comes with costs not covered by the NHS, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the financial implications. Consider your personal preferences and circumstances when making a decision. Affordability remains the key concern for those considering treatment, which is why we offer comprehensive finance plans to break down costs into manageable monthly instalments.
Ultimately, private vision correction surgery is about enhancing your quality of life and enjoying the freedom to see clearly on your terms. For those seeking a streamlined, efficient and patient-focused experience, private care remains a compelling choice.
If you want to know more about the journey to clear vision, attend a consultation with one of our experts at your local Optical Express clinic.
[1] www.ihpn.org.uk/going-private-2024-introduction/
[2] Maharani, A. et al. (2018) ‘Cataract surgery and age-related cognitive decline: A 13-year follow-up of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing’, PLOS ONE, 13(10). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0204833.
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