For 71-year-old Len Browne from Durham, NHS cataract surgery at Optegra Eye Clinic Newcastle didn’t just restore his sight, it gave him back the freedom to enjoy his lifelong hobby of wood carving. And his treatment journey began with an unexpected conversation, not with a person, but with Iris, Optegra’s new AI assistant.
As one of the first patients to use Optegra’s intelligent AI assistant, Len began his treatment at a time that suited him – no waiting for office hours or call-backs.
“I had an initial online appointment to provide all my basic information – it wasn’t until I was about halfway through answering the questions that I realised I wasn’t speaking to an actual person but a computer!
When you talk to AI and technology, it can sometimes feel clinical, but Iris didn’t sound like that at all; it was a very positive experience. Iris was very personable, and the whole process was very easy and positive. I also think it’s a very clever name!”
From Routine Eye Test to Life-Changing Diagnosis
Len first suspected something was wrong when his vision didn’t improve after updating his glasses. As a passionate woodcarver and turner, he creates everything from miniature birds to full-scale Victorian-style rocking horses, and precise vision is essential.
“I’d had an eye test and upgraded my glasses, but my vision was still not quite right. I am an amateur woodcarver and turner, making all kinds of wooden objects from small birds and walking sticks to Victorian-style rocking horses. However, poor eyesight and sharp tools are not a good combination, so sadly, I had to put the chisels away.”
A further examination with his local optician revealed a cataract in his right eye, prompting a referral to Optegra for treatment.
Fast, Personalised Care at Optegra Newcastle
Within just two weeks of speaking with Iris, Len was booked in for surgery at Optegra’s Newcastle clinic – a pace that pleasantly surprised him. “I only had to wait a couple of weeks, which was brilliant.”
On the day of surgery, Len felt fully supported by the clinical team and impressed by the individual care he received.
“I can’t fault the Optegra staff, they were all tremendous. I never felt apprehensive or nervous, or that I was part of a conveyor belt of patients. I was made to feel special and welcomed, which is just what you need when facing eye surgery. They are giving people back their quality of life, which is wonderful.”
The difference after surgery was immediate and profound. Len is now back at his carving bench and embracing everyday tasks with new confidence.
“My vision is now excellent – I can’t believe how much light is now coming into my eye. I am back to my wood carving, which brings me so much joy, and even simple tasks like shopping are so much easier. I would say to anyone considering surgery, just go for it, as the results are immeasurable.”
How Iris (Optegra’s AI Assistant) is Changing the Patient Experience
Behind Len’s positive start to care is Iris, a smart digital assistant designed to make the referral and assessment process faster, more convenient, and more flexible.
Nicola Young, Head of AI at Optegra, explains how Iris is enhancing the way patients begin their treatment:
“Healthcare is changing with great opportunities to improve patient experience with the use of AI. Our very carefully created assistant, Iris, can start the patient’s treatment journey very quickly.
The first stage is for patients to respond to questions about their eyes and general health, and by using Iris, this can take place at any time of day or night that suits the patient. If they have any issues, they can request a call from the team instead. So, it is very convenient and can take place quickly without having to wait for an appointment. This, in turn, also frees up our clinicians’ time so they can see more patients in the clinic for treatment.
We are delighted that Mr Browne found this a seamless process and was then able to be treated quickly to restore his excellent vision.”
Putting Technology and Patient Care First
Len’s story shows how combining advanced technology with personal care can deliver truly life-enhancing results. With faster access, flexible booking and expert clinical teams, Optegra continues to set the standard for NHS cataract treatment across the UK.
