New relocatable Ophthalmic Diagnostic and Treatment Centre will deliver comprehensive eyecare directly into local communities.
In a commitment to revolutionise community healthcare, a first-of-its-kind eye health centre has been launched in Hereford by SpaMedica, designed specifically to deliver high-quality eyecare exactly where it’s needed most.
The custom-designed, relocatable unit spans an impressive 3200 square feet, which is equivalent to around six swimming pools, and is conveniently located for patients beside an ASDA Hereford Supercentre – ensuring easy access for thousands of local residents.
The SpaMedica team celebrating the first PAC appointment at the new site in Hereford.
Fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the centre is staffed by experienced eyecare professionals and designed to offer comprehensive ophthalmology treatments, in a comfortable environment.
Uniquely, the facility is bespoke and relocatable, meaning it can be rapidly deployed to meet demand for accessible vision care within local communities, as needed. This innovative approach eliminates the high cost and inflexibility associated with permanent hospital builds, aligning directly with NHS England’s vision of delivering accessible care closer to patients’ homes and reducing pressure on hospital services.
Richard Woodward, SpaMedica CEO, says: “Advancing eye care and making ophthalmology treatments available in a timely and convenient way is at the heart of this investment. We believe accessibility is crucial and that patients should be able to receive care within 30 minutes of their location.
“It’s also important that optometrists have peace of mind that they can refer their patients to SpaMedica and know that we’re close by, the referral process is quick, and the care will be high-quality, with great outcomes.
“Our aim with this UK-first centre is to bring together diagnostics and surgery under one roof, in a solution that is scalable and truly fit for purpose.”
In Herefordshire alone, this community-focused centre will support an estimated 21,000 residents who are currently living with common eye-related conditions.
Patients referred by their optician or GP to the state-of-the-art unit can expect to be treated in as little as four weeks - compared to a national NHS target of 18 weeks.
Overseeing operations in Hereford is Jonathan Barnes. He explains: “With over a quarter of Herefordshire residents aged over 65, accessible eye care is crucial.
This mobile centre removes barriers to care by bringing services directly into the heart of the community. Our goal is to ensure patients can receive essential treatments close to home, minimising disruption and maximising convenience.
Jonathan adds: “We’ve decided to locate this centre beside the ASDA superstore because it’s a convenient and recognisable spot for many local people.
“Plus, many patients are brought to an appointment by a friend or relative, so they’ll be able to do a weekly shop while they’re waiting! We’re really looking forward to welcoming our very first patients and showcasing to Hereford the high-quality NHS care SpaMedica is known for.”
SpaMedica also offers a free door-to-door transport service, further ensuring equitable access for all community members.
With 63 hospitals across the country, SpaMedica’s commitment to patient care is reflected in its reputation. All of the provider’s hospitals inspected by the Care
Quality Commission have been rated as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ and 98% of patients who have reviewed SpaMedica on the NHS website have awarded the provider a five-star rating.
