Pensioner pays £3k to avoid NHS eye surgery wait

A pensioner says he plans to pay nearly £3,000 for private cataract surgery after being told he faces a minimum 16-week NHS wait.

Duncan Robertson, 70, from Kent, said he was "desperate" for the treatment as he feared delays would affect his independence and quality of life.

He said the situation created a "two-tier system" in which people who can afford private treatment are seen sooner.

NHS Kent and Medway said routine cataract patients across the area could expect surgery no sooner than 16 weeks after referral and that those with the greatest clinical need continued to be prioritised.

Robertson, from near Maidstone, said he was referred by his optician on 9 October and received confirmation from the NHS five days later.

He said he was then told routine cataract surgery would not take place for at least 16 weeks.

"It's an absolute disaster," he said.

"If I wanted the surgery sooner, I would have to pay for it myself but I'm retired and disposable income is limited."

Robertson, who has not yet had the surgery, said his deteriorating eyesight had affected his ability to drive safely.

"Being able to drive means my wife and I can go about our daily business," he said.

"I also help a friend, who is blind, to run errands."

He said the NHS should take greater account of the impact delays have on patients' lives, particularly those who could not afford private surgery.

NHS Kent and Medway said cataract services had expanded significantly but waiting times had become inconsistent.

The organisation said a more consistent approach would provide fairer access to planned care while ensuring those needing surgery most urgently were treated first.

A spokesperson said: "We have a responsibility to use NHS funding as fairly and effectively as possible for the two million people we serve."

NHS England said in October 2025 that AI and virtual clinics had helped reduce eye care waiting times across the South East.

The organisation said 70% of patients were seen within 18 weeks of referral in July 2025, compared with 65% a year earlier.

Robert Cooper, director of strategic engagement at the Royal Institute of Blind People (RNIB), said long waits for cataract surgery were "extremely concerning" for patients.

"Some NHS boards are imposing a minimum 14-week wait," he said.

"People become anxious, particularly those with cataracts, as their sight deteriorates over time and it can affect their quality of life."

He said the charity provides support services, including liaison officers in hospital trusts, for patients.

He added there was no clear guidance on "acceptable" waiting times for cataract treatment and called for better support for patients.

"It's about prioritising patients and identifying who should receive timely care, support and surgery," he said.

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