Optegra Eye Clinic Colchester recently welcomed Pam Cox, MP for Colchester, to tour its advanced facilities and see first-hand how its NHS cataract surgery services are improving access to life-changing eye care in the community.
Since opening in February 2024, the clinic has provided nearly 3,000 free NHS cataract operations, significantly reducing waiting times for patients in the region. Through a close partnership with the NHS, eligible patients can now receive treatment within just six weeks of referral, easing pressure on local hospitals and ensuring people get the care they need without delay.
A Vote of Confidence from Colchester’s MP
During her visit, Pam Cox met with Optegra’s leadership team, including James O’Shea and Adam Cockley, as well as the clinic’s expert clinical staff and patients currently undergoing treatment.
She praised the collaboration between Optegra and the NHS, describing it as “vital” for maintaining accessible healthcare in the area.
“From touring the clinic today, I can see that patients who are referred here are experiencing the highest quality facilities with excellent patient care and impressive outcomes,” said Pam Cox. “Services like this make it easier for my constituents to access NHS cataract treatment quickly and locally, enabling them to continue to live their lives to the full.”
Pam also highlighted the importance of continued investment in cataract services, noting that Optegra’s presence is already helping thousands of local people avoid long waits for treatment.
Delivering Timely Care for Local Patients
Optegra’s Adam Cockley emphasised the organisation’s commitment to working alongside the NHS to ensure patients receive prompt, high-quality care:
“We are so pleased to be offering local people surgery at our Colchester clinic and providing their NHS treatment within just six weeks of referral,” Adam said. “Across England, we remain committed to supporting the NHS and helping patients avoid unnecessary waits for treatment.”
Cataract Surgery: Quick, Pain-Free, Life-Changing
Colchester Clinic Manager, Kate Tilley, explained that cataracts affect around one in three adults aged over 65 and can only be treated with surgery.
“The procedure is quick, pain-free, and the results are remarkable – patients often say it’s like seeing the world in HD again,” she said.
Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded natural lens of the eye and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens. The improvement in vision is often immediate, helping patients return to everyday activities like reading, driving, and enjoying hobbies.
For NHS treatment at Optegra Colchester, patients simply need to ask their optometrist or GP for a referral.
Supporting Both NHS and Private Patients
While its core mission is delivering NHS cataract surgery quickly and locally, Optegra Colchester also offers private treatment options. These include advanced lens types for enhanced vision and other vision correction procedures, such as lens replacement. Book a free consultation with one of our expert consultants today!
By Author: Dr Sajjad Mahmood
Mr Mahmood is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Optegra, specialising in medical retina and cataract surgery.
Medically Reviewed Date: 15th August 2025
