Cataract surgery now offered at Kaitaia Hospital
Improving access and equity in healthcare by bringing care closer to home has leapt forward, with cataract surgery now being provided at Kaitaia Hospital.
Ophthalmology Clinical Director Dr Andrew Watts and the Kaitaia Hospital surgical team performed cataract surgery on the first three patients in the Far North yesterday, 30 September 2024.
“I had wonderful professional care here in Kaitaia Hospital, and I can’t tell you how great it is to have this procedure done closer to home,” shared Janice Silva, one of the first local patients to experience the life-changing procedure.
The Te Tai Tokerau Health NZ ophthalmology team will now provide the complete cataract care pathway in Kaitaia, from first specialist appointments to cataract surgery and post-operative follow-up if needed. This new service reflects one of the many healthcare initiatives being rolled out to support the government’s focus on achieving shorter wait times for first specialist appointments and elective surgery.
Cataract treatment involves removing the cloudy natural lens inside your eye. Usually, cataract surgery is a short procedure, lasting about 45 minutes. Most people stay awake during cataract surgery but take a light sedative to relax them.
Up to 20 patients each month will receive their cataract procedure in the Far North.
Photo credit: Dr Andrew Watts (right) prepares to provide Janice Silva her cataract surgery at Kaitaia Hospital.
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