NHS Ophthalmology (Eye Care) Referral Waiting Times in Chelmsford

Aces Chelmsford

Updated February 2026

The typical wait to see an ophthalmologist is

5 weeks

That's 1 month

The NHS Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting list at Aces Chelmsford currently has 72 patients waiting, with a typical wait of around 5 weeks from GP referral. About 8 in 10 Ophthalmology (Eye Care) patients here are seen within 18 weeks (the NHS constitutional target is 9 in 10). Aces Chelmsford is an Independent Sector provider in the East of England region.

12-month change

Then vs now for this department at this hospital

Nov 25Feb 26
Typical wait
4.8weeks
How long most people wait
Seen in 18 weeks
8in 10
▼ -4.2 pts
NHS aims to see everyone this fast
People waiting
72
▲ +64
On the waiting list right now
Waiting over a year
0
No change
Been on the list for 12+ months
8 in 10
seen within 18 weeks
The NHS tries to treat everyone this fast
72
people waiting right now
Currently on this department's list
24 weeks
long-wait time
About 1 in 12 people wait this long or longer
25 people
waiting for a surgery date
Already been told they need an operation

Wait time over time

Median wait for this department, with the national average as a dashed line.

How long are people waiting?

Distribution of patients by how many weeks they've been on the waiting list.

How does this compare?

The national average wait to see an ophthalmologist is about 9 weeks. This hospital is faster than the national average.

Hospital ranking

Ranked 64th out of 298 hospitals nationally for this department

Ranked 9th out of 41 in East of England

What does Ophthalmology (Eye Care) cover?

Common conditions and procedures for this department:

Cataract surgery
Glaucoma treatment
Macular degeneration
Diabetic eye screening
Squint correction
Tear duct problems
Eyelid surgery
Laser eye treatment
Retinal detachment

Hospital contact

Main hospital switchboard. ask to be connected to the department.

Marlborough House, Chelmsford, CM1 1LN
NHS Mid And South Essex Integrated Care Board

Patient experiences

People who used this department at this hospital.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the NHS Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting list at Aces Chelmsford?

Aces Chelmsford currently has about 72 patients on its Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting list. The typical wait from GP referral to first appointment is around 5 weeks.

Does Aces Chelmsford meet the NHS 18-week target for Ophthalmology (Eye Care)?

About 83% of Ophthalmology (Eye Care) patients at Aces Chelmsford are currently seen within 18 weeks of GP referral. The NHS constitutional target is 92%.

Can I choose a different hospital if the Ophthalmology (Eye Care) wait is too long?

Yes. Under the NHS Constitution, patients in England can ask their GP to refer them to any hospital that provides NHS care. Use WaitRadar to compare Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting times at other NHS hospitals near you before accepting a referral.

This is informational data, not medical advice. Always discuss referral options with your GP. Full disclaimer.