My first appointment for cataract monitoring,in May, 2021, was very distressing. The procedures were not all comfortable and particularly the blood tests and solution which was injected into my arm, prior to tests being taken. These were not in fact for the development of the cataracts, but for signs of Macular degeneration, something which I had not known was there and was a very upsetting 'surprise'. When all the tests had been concluded, the consultant gave me not only the outcome of the tests, but more distressingly, that my sight was 'border line' under DVLA ruling. This of course meant that I had to give up my independence, car and involvement in several social groups, which include leading walks, none of which would be accessible by public transport. My friend was waiting for me in her car and ably supported me on the return journey home.
When I was called for a second consultation in October, I was not at all happy about going, fearing the same awful tests and procedures, but of course went. It was nothing like the first experience, some tests were redone, but the length of time I was in the hospital was an hour, not the 3 hours of the first visit. Although the MD in my left eye was slightly worse, the way in which the news was given to me was very different. Caring and understanding are the words I would use for the member of the Consultant team. If I have to go again, and I think that is highly possible, I will not be afraid or fearful. Thank you to the Team.
Staff attitude