"Ophthalmology Department"

I have been under the care of the RSCH Eye Clinic for almost 5 years. This follows the discovery of high pressures in both eyes due to the presence of open-angle glaucoma this being progressive in the right eye. The situation had, until recently, been controlled satisfactorily by medication in the form of drops.

More recently, the pressure in the right eye had become elevated to a level that might further threaten the optic nerve. SLT laser treatment was tried on the eye late last year with limited success. As a result, a relatively new technique involving the installation of an Xen gel stent was performed in January 2016 to provide an auxiliary drainage path. The result appears to have been a resounding success leading to a significant reduction in the eye pressure and the termination of medication.

I cannot speak highly enough of the consultant concerned in my recent treatment. I have been fully involved at all stages and given a clear and helpful understanding of the treatment methods, the likely outcome and risks together with an idea of the normal patient experience both during and after the procedures. This has been supplemented by other useful relevant literature and web-site references which I have been able to follow up in my own time.

Of course a service like this is not possible without the right facilities and a competent and caring supporting team. The extensive recent renovations have turned the Eye Clinic into an excellent centre with an efficient check-in facility, more generous waiting areas and the acquisition of new equipment. The out-patient experience has also been enhanced by the introduction of the M & S and new cafe facilities near the main entrance.

I have found the arrangement of appointments in the Eye Clinic to be reliable and efficient. Appointment punctuality has generally been very good and my GP has always been promptly appraised of my progress after each visit.

Finally, a day-clinic like this is only as good as the people in it. I am well aware of the many challenges currently facing the NHS and the pressures some staff must come under. I can only speak as I find and my recent experience has confirmed to me that the great majority of staff do their utmost to to provide a competent caring service to their patients I cannot speak too highly of the polite helpful care and attention I always receive at the Eye Clinic.

Please convey my sincere thanks to all concerned.