You don’t have to travel far when it comes to life-changing eye care. That was the clear message as Jacob Collier, MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, visited Optegra Eye Clinic Uttoxeter to see first-hand how fast, high-quality cataract treatment is transforming lives, right on the community’s doorstep. From meeting dedicated clinical teams to speaking with patients, Mr Collier saw the powerful difference that local, consultant-led NHS care can make.
Transforming Lives Through Local NHS Cataract Care
During his visit, Mr Collier met with both patients and members of the clinical team, learning more about our services and the real difference the Uttoxeter clinic is making in the community. Mr Collier shared: “It’s been great to visit Optegra in Uttoxeter today, where I’ve met the team providing excellent care to local people.” He also praised Optegra’s commitment to working with the NHS to “bring down waiting times for people with cataracts.”
With over 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 affected by cataracts, timely treatment can make a transformative difference. Optegra’s consultant-led care ensures patients are seen quickly, treated safely, and supported at every step.
“Restoring a high-quality level of vision has a big impact on independence – helping people to drive with confidence, see family more easily, and avoid falls,” Mr Collier added. “It’s fantastic that Uttoxeter has an NHS cataract centre of this kind available locally.”
Real Lives, Real Impact: What Patients Experience at Optegra Uttoxeter
As part of the visit, Mr Collier spoke with Dr Fadi Alfaqawi, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Optegra, who has personally performed nearly 3,000 cataract procedures. He described the life-changing nature of the operation: “It is an absolute privilege to restore vision to cataract patients, as the impact affects all aspects of life,” Dr Alfaqawi said. “Patients are often surprised how quick the procedure is, and the difference it makes – many describe seeing bright lights and vivid colours. Many say it’s like seeing the world in HD.”
Optegra Uttoxeter offers a welcoming environment and an experienced team that helps patients feel at ease, even if they are initially nervous about surgery. With local NHS cataract referrals, patients often benefit from shorter waiting times and the convenience of treatment close to home. “To have treatment at Optegra Uttoxeter, patients with a cataract diagnosis simply need to ask their optometrist or GP to refer them here,” Dr Alfaqawi added.
A Trusted Network with Local Expertise
Optegra Eye Health Care has carried out over one million eye procedures across 28 hospital sites in the UK and Europe, combining cutting-edge technology, leading medical expertise and a patient-first approach. The Uttoxeter clinic plays a vital role in this network by supporting NHS capacity and offering consistently high standards of care in the local community.
Jen Abbott, Operations Director at Optegra Uttoxeter, said the team was delighted to welcome Mr Collier and highlight the difference the clinic is making for patients across the region. “It was a pleasure to meet Jacob and tell him about Optegra’s work with the NHS,” she said. “We are both keen to ensure that as many people as possible know they can access this treatment on their doorstep. There’s no need for local people to wait months for cataract surgery or travel further afield. Mr Collier was pleased that this service is available for his constituents.”
Supporting NHS Care, While Offering More
While Mr Collier’s visit focused on the clinic’s important role in NHS cataract care, Optegra Uttoxeter also provides a range of private treatments for patients who are not eligible for NHS surgery or wish to explore more tailored vision correction options.
Private cataract surgery is delivered by the same experienced consultants, in the same purpose-built facilities, ensuring consistent, high-quality outcomes and a smoother path to clearer vision.
Get in touch with our friendly team at Optegra Uttoxeter. Speak to your GP or optometrist to request an NHS referral, or contact us directly to book a free private consultation and explore the best option for your eye health.
By Author: Fadi Alfaqawi
Medically Reviewed Date: 12th June 2025
