How long is the NHS wait for cataract surgery in Reading?

The current median NHS wait for cataract surgery in Reading (across 1 NHS trust) is approximately 11 weeks. The 92nd percentile (long-tail) wait can extend to 26 weeks. There are 4,604 patients currently waiting on the Ophthalmology pathway across these trusts.

Where can I get cataract surgery privately in Reading?

Reading has private hospitals operated by Spire Healthcare, Nuffield Health, Circle Health, and HCA Healthcare among others. Private cataract surgery typically costs £1,995–£4,500 in the UK. Most private hospitals offer consultation packages where you can be assessed within days. Ask your GP for a referral letter or self-refer directly.

Will going private affect my NHS care for cataract surgery?

No. You can self-fund private treatment without affecting your NHS care or losing your place on the NHS waiting list. Many patients use private providers to access faster surgery while keeping the NHS option as a backup.

Which Reading NHS trust has the shortest wait?

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust is the main NHS trust serving Reading for this procedure, with a current median wait of 11 weeks.

Can I be referred to an NHS trust outside Reading for a faster wait?

Yes. Under the NHS Patient Choice rules, you have the right to ask your GP to refer you to any NHS trust in England — not just the one closest to your home. If a trust elsewhere has a shorter waiting list, you can request a referral there. Travel costs are your own responsibility.

Cataract surgery in Reading: NHS wait vs private cost

The NHS waiting list for cataract surgery in Reading has a median wait of 11 weeks across 1 NHS trust serving the area. Private treatment typically costs £2,700, ranging from £1,995 to £4,500.

NHS

Faster than the national average

11 weeks

Median wait in Reading

92nd percentile wait:: 26 weeks
Patients waiting:: 4,604
Seen within 18 weeks:: 3687%

Free at the point of use. Specialty-level data covering Ophthalmology.

Private

Days, not weeks

£2,700

Typical UK private price

Lowest published:: £1,995
Highest published:: £4,500
Typical wait:: 2–4 weeks

Self-fund or use health insurance. Major UK groups: Spire, Nuffield, Circle, HCA.

NHS trusts serving Reading

NHS Trust	Median wait	92nd %ile	Patients waiting	< 18 wks
Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust RHW	11 wk	26 wk	4,604	3687%

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Cataract surgery in Reading: NHS wait vs private cost

NHS trusts serving Reading

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