NHS Ophthalmology (Eye Care) Referral Waiting Times in Caterham

North Downs Hospital

Updated April 2026

The typical wait to see an ophthalmologist is

9 weeks

That's 2 months

The NHS Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting list at North Downs Hospital currently has 121 patients waiting, with a typical wait of around 9 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). 1 have been waiting over a year. North Downs Hospital is an Independent Sector provider in the South East region. Waits at this hospital haven't really changed since April 2025. It's slipped down 21 places in the national league for this department's; now 203 out of 313 hospitals.

12-month change

Then vs now for this department at this hospital

Apr 25Apr 26
Typical wait
9.3weeks
No change
How long most people wait
Seen in 18 weeks
8in 10
▲ +5.9 pts
NHS aims to see everyone this fast
People waiting
121
▲ +11
On the waiting list right now
Waiting over a year
1
No change
Been on the list for 12+ months
8 in 10
seen within 18 weeks
The NHS tries to treat everyone this fast
121
people waiting right now
Currently on this department's list
30 weeks
long-wait time
About 1 in 12 people wait this long or longer
1 people
have waited over a year
Been on the list for 12+ months
26 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.

No change

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 8 weeks. This hospital is slower than the national average.

Hospital ranking

Ranked 203rd out of 313 hospitals nationally for this department

Ranked 32nd out of 52 in South East

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.

46 Tupwood Lane, Caterham, CR3 6DP
NHS Surrey Heartlands 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 North Downs Hospital?

North Downs Hospital currently has about 121 patients on its Ophthalmology (Eye Care) waiting list. The typical wait from GP referral to first appointment is around 9 weeks.

Does North Downs Hospital meet the NHS 18-week target for Ophthalmology (Eye Care)?

About 78% of Ophthalmology (Eye Care) patients at North Downs Hospital 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.