Key Takeaways

  • Mandatory cataract surgery waiting times of up to 16 weeks have been introduced by approximately half of England’s ICBs

  • Survey findings associate delayed surgery with reduced independence, worsening mental health, caregiver burden and increased healthcare utilization

  • SpaMedica recommends pausing further implementation of mandatory minimum waits pending comprehensive impact assessments

New research commissioned by SpaMedica suggests that mandatory minimum waiting times for cataract surgery in England may negatively affect patients’ independence, mental health and employment while increasing demands on families and the National Health Service (NHS).

Approximately half of England’s Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) have introduced mandatory minimum waiting times of up to 16 weeks for cataract surgery, compared with previous waits of approximately 4 weeks.

Source: SpaMedica

The report, Minimum Waiting Times for Cataract Surgery: The Impact on Patients, Families and the NHS, was developed with input from Age UK, RNIB, Fight for Sight and Thomas Pocklington Trust. It incorporates patient and caregiver surveys, interviews and economic analysis.

Among surveyed patients, 92% reported changing their driving habits while awaiting surgery, including 29% who stopped driving entirely. Among working-age respondents, 31% reduced their working hours and 21% stopped working. Additionally, 69% reported worsening mental health.

The findings also highlight the burden on caregivers. Approximately three-quarters of patients reported needing additional assistance after referral. In a separate survey of 300 family members and caregivers, 86% reported providing additional care because of declining patient health or independence, while 60% experienced increased stress or anxiety.

Delayed surgery may also increase healthcare utilization. Among surveyed patients, 19% reported attending an emergency department or receiving treatment following a trip or fall, while 33% required additional general practitioner appointments.

“Making patients wait longer when capacity is available risks being a false economy, with the consequences felt by patients, their families and the NHS,” said Richard Woodward, CEO of SpaMedica.

The report recommends that ICBs pause the introduction or expansion of mandatory minimum waiting times until their clinical, economic and equality impacts have been assessed. It also calls for greater involvement of patients, advocacy organizations and clinical leaders in waiting-time policy decisions.