Supporting NHS Eye Care in Colchester

As your MP for Colchester, I’m always looking for ways to ensure our community has access to the best possible healthcare—and that includes eye health. On 5 August, I had the pleasure of visiting an Eye Clinic in Colchester, where I saw first-hand the incredible work being done to support NHS patients in our city.

Since opening its doors in February 2024, Optegra Colchester has provided free NHS cataract surgery to nearly 3,000 local residents. This has not only helped reduce waiting times but also ensured that patients receive high-quality care close to home—often within just six weeks of referral.

During my visit, I met with the dedicated clinical staff and patients currently undergoing treatment. I was truly impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities and the compassionate care being delivered every day.

Cataracts affect around one in three adults over the age of 65, and the only treatment is a quick, pain-free surgical procedure. Many patients describe the results as life-changing - like seeing the world in HD! Thanks to this partnership with the NHS, vital treatment is now more accessible than ever for Colchester residents.

With demand for cataract surgery continuing to grow, it’s essential that we maintain and expand services like these to prevent long waiting lists from returning.

I also appreciated the open and honest conversation about the current pressures facing the NHS and how changes to care provision are impacting patients. It’s clear that their commitment to putting patients first aligns with my own priorities for healthcare in Colchester.

If you or a loved one needs cataract treatment, simply ask your optometrist or GP for a referral.

Let’s continue to champion accessible healthcare for everyone in Colchester.