Ophthalmology patient information

Find out what to expect when you come to hospital for your ophthalmology appointment.

Before your appointment

We aim to see and treat all patients within 18 weeks of referral by their GP.

Your appointment letter will have anything specific you need to bring to your appointment. In general, please bring a list of your medications and a copy of your glasses prescription if available to the appointment. If you wear glasses, please bring them with you to the appointment.

You are welcome to bring a relative, close friend or carer with you to your appointment.

Please note, you may be given eye drops at your appointment to dilate your pupils. As these will blur your vision for up to four hours you are advised to take public transport or to arrange a lift to and from your appointment. 

During your appointment

Please note that we are a teaching hospital, so medical students may be present for some appointments. If you do not wish to have them in the room please let the nurse or doctor know and the students will be asked to step outside.

Please be aware our waiting times can vary from 10 minutes to two to three hours depending on the number of staff present and demand on the service. Once called in, your appointment will take 10 to 15 minutes.

Tests are often required prior to seeing the doctor. These can include but are not limited to:

  • testing your vision
  • measuring the pressure in the eye
  • scans of various parts of the eye as applicable

Patient information leaflets

Further online resources

Information from NHS Choices

This is also a great resource for in-depth information. Please click below for relevant information 

NICE Guidance

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence regularly publishes information for the public as well as for eye care professionals related to various ophthalmic techniques and interventions. 

Click here to see information related to ophthalmic interventions.

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