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Local health and political leaders visited a new Ophthalmology Diagnostic Hub in South Woodham Ferrers today and saw the future for eye tests.

They were able to see first-hand how the new ophthalmology clinic is benefiting patients suffering from blinding and age-related eye conditions across mid and south Essex. Joining the visit was Sir John Whittingdale, MP for Maldon, Cllr Jeff Henry Chair of the Essex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Daniel Doherty, Mid Essex Health Alliance and Fergus Bird of Healthwatch Essex, who were able to see how this new clinic works for patients.

The new state-of-the-art Ophthalmology Diagnostic Hub opened at Tylers Ride in South Woodham Ferrers in August 2024, and has already provided over 900 appointments to help diagnose glaucoma conditions. The hub is opening for more clinics for other eye conditions in the new future.

Patients can complete all their tests and diagnostics in a single visit, handled by either a technician or nurse. Their results are reviewed by doctors, with patients informed of the findings and any changes to their treatment plan through a phone call or letter.

By streamlining the testing process, patients now spend less time in the clinic and require fewer in-person appointments, which has led to a more efficient and smoother patient experience.

Sir John Whittingdale, MP for Maldon said: “I am pleased that the new ophthalmology hub is open, which is good news for residents of Maldon and surrounding areas. It’s bringing diagnostics into the community.

“This much-needed facility will help speed things up for patients and mean they can receive their vital test sooner, leading to a better experience.”

Dr Aman Chandra, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Trust, said: “The opening of this new diagnostic hub is allowing patients to be seen much quicker than before and cut down on waiting times for potentially blinding eye conditions.

“We’ve seen tremendous success with the other hub at Orsett, which has seen over 4,200 people since opening in March, and this new clinic is proving equally as popular. I encourage anyone who is invited to attend an appointment to come to the centre and have your tests and checks done.”