Share review of Spire Norwich Hospital

Spire Norwich Hospital 2022-07-12 Person 5 5 0

My optician recently diagnosed fast growing cataracts in both eyes and was told they were progressing so quickly I would lose my sight within a couple of months. The NHS was unable to see me for approximately 2 years so I was referred to a private clinic which took on emergency NHS patients. I was initially relieved to find this option was available to me but unfortunately the lack of dignity and professionalism I was shown at this other establishment concerned me to such an extent, I had no confidence in their ability to look after me or my eyes! This left me very distressed so I called Spire. The staff at Spire answered all my queries and felt I could trust them so booked a consultation which I attended less than a week later. I was very relieved to find my consultation was with the surgeon who would be carrying out the operation and found this very reassuring. Whilst in the waiting room, I spoke to no less than 3 other patients who had already had their cataracts removed and they were all super happy and also reassured me the procedure was nothing to worry about. Naturally I was still rather anxious about having the operation as I would be awake and was very relieved to find my surgeon Mr. Robert Burton (Ted) didn't "gas light" my worries but talked through them with me and explained everything clearly. I was amazed to be given a date for my surgery less than a week later. On the day of the operation, I felt calmer than expected as I had already met the surgeon and formed a good level of trust, something which is very important to me. Two smart and friendly nurses were waiting at the door of my private room and carried out all the necessary checks competently. Within no time at all Mr. Burton appeared to escort me to theatre, which was also very reassuring as it gave me a chance to ask "the man himself" any last minute questions I had. I was assigned a wonderful nurse who allowed me to voice my individual concerns (feeling out of control and vulnerable) and he took these very seriously without humiliating me in any way and explained how he would look after me every step of the way. Once in theatre, I was not rushed and all my wishes were taken into account. I can honestly say I felt completely safe and experienced absolutely no pain at any point. Before I knew it (12 minutes to be precise) both eyes were done and Mr. Burton escorted me back to my room where the two lovely nurses were once again waiting for me. They carried out a few simply check and then lunch arrived. I marveled at how quick, straight forward and pain free it had all been. Before I knew it my friend was in reception and I was on my way home. 5 hours after the procedure I could see and I mean really see. I was so thrilled with the results I spent the rest of the week looking at everything with, quite literally, new eyes! I expected my eyes to be painful or swollen for a few days but I followed the aftercare instructions to the letter and had no problems whatsoever. So, I can honestly say that whilst I could have had my surgery carried out elsewhere at no cost, my decision to pay for the wonderful care I received at Spire was worth every penny and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.