The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust has achieved a record milestone in its high volume, low-complexity cataract surgery service at Russells Hall Hospital.
Performing an astounding 21 cataract operations in a single day, this initiative is a key part of the Trust’s efforts to reduce NHS waiting times and improve patient access to high-quality ophthalmic care in Dudley and the wider Black Country region.
Cataract surgery is the most critical procedure most people will have on their eyes, and the work from The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust and The Black Country Integrated Care System (ICS) has allowed the hospital to achieve high volumes cataract lists and increased choices for patients in a safe, efficient and speedy manner.
The success of this high-flow cataract service is built on the dedication and collaboration of the entire ophthalmology team. Developed under the leadership or Mr. Mike Quinlan, cataract lead, and Mr. John-Sebastian Barry, ophthalmology Black Country ICS lead, alongside a committed group of surgeons, theatre and clinic nurses, ophthalmic technicians, consultants, and administrative staff.
Consultant ophthalmologist Mr. Dilraj Sahota, who was part of the surgical team on the day, said: “I am delighted with our team’s milestone achievement today. It was an enjoyable and successful day, and we are proud to have provided such high-quality care to our patients.
“This is a testament to the collective effort of the entire cataract surgery service in developing and executing high-flow lists. We look forward to further refining and streamlining this model to deliver excellent healthcare for the Dudley community.”
The multidisciplinary team, including consultants Mr. Hammad Sarwar and Mr. Randeep Sharma, has worked tirelessly to establish and refine the process, ensuring efficient patient care while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards. The secretarial and administrative teams have also played a crucial role in organising patient pathways and supporting the seamless execution of these high-volume lists. The waiting time for routine cataract surgery is now very short, as the Trust is committed to ensuring patients benefit maximally from the surgery with the best outcome.
Diane Wake, chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re proud to shout about this incredible achievement of our ophthalmology team. It is brilliant to see the team work seamlessly together to ensure the best care for patients, and highlights how their skill, dedication and teamwork are making a significant difference to people’s lives in Dudley.”
Malcolm Agg, a patient who was one of the 21 surgeries, said: “The surgery was a really great experience. Being offered a slot the day after I’d had my assessment was brilliant – it suited me down to the ground.”
This innovative approach aligns with the broader NHS strategy of increasing in-house surgical capacity to address waiting lists effectively. The team remains committed to expanding and improving the service, ensuring more patients in Dudley receive timely, high-quality cataract surgery.
