Resident ophthalmologist procedure numbers bounce back

Cataract procedure numbers for ophthalmologists in training have returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to new research from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

The research has found that the improvement reflects the NHS’s recovery and an increase in placements at independent sector providers (ISPs). Access to ISP-led cataract training has jumped threefold since 2023, with almost 130 placements currently in England.

Feedback on these placements is ‘overwhelmingly positive’, according to the findings, with independent provider Newmedica highlighted for its role in this progress.

, says: ‘It’s fantastic to see trainee procedure numbers bounce back for the benefit of patients, the NHS, and the consultants of tomorrow.

‘Between February 2024 and January 2025, Newmedica hosted or continued placements for 26 doctors in training across 15 services, with another 11 starting placements during the February 2025 rotation. Altogether, we’ve hosted 66 placements across 15 services since 2021.’

He adds: ‘I’d like to congratulate my colleagues across the Royal College, NHS and independent sector for the teamwork that’s driven this improvement.

‘Our Newmedica consultants and teams are immensely proud to support trainees, and I’m grateful for all their hard work. Training is central to everything we do at Newmedica because it underpins our outstanding patient care.

‘We’re proud that a survey conducted for trainees in 2024 showed 100% of survey respondents were satisfied with supervision during their placements.’

The Royal College is also urging further collaboration to maintain momentum around placement opportunities in the independent sector. However, there are concerns that changes to how Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) commission NHS cataract surgery could make this more challenging.

‘One of the independent sector’s strengths is high-volume surgery, but changes to ICB commissioning risk reducing training opportunities,’ says Mr Chang. ‘This could mean fewer experienced consultants and delays to trainees gaining vital skills.’

Reaffirming Newmedica’s commitment to training, he concludes: ‘We continue to work closely with the Royal College, ICBs, sector partners and deaneries to ensure as many trainees as possible benefit from the excellent placements provided by our expert consultants.’