Preston Eye Hospital Celebrates Five Years of ‘Outstanding’ Patient Care
SpaMedica’s Preston eye hospital is marking its fifth anniversary, celebrating a half-decade of exceptional patient care and swift access to eye health services in Central Lancashire. Opened in 2019, the clinic provides cataract surgery for NHS patients within four to eight weeks – a significant improvement on the national 18-week target, according to the NHS.
Based in Albert Edward House, SpaMedica Preston aims to make eye care accessible, with free on-site parking and a complimentary transport service for patients who may struggle to travel independently. This convenience, coupled with high-quality care, has made the hospital highly popular among patients in the area. Peter Shaw, a local patient who underwent cataract surgery on both eyes, described his experience as “superb from start to finish,” praising the clinic’s “efficiency and friendliness.”
The facility’s approach has been recognised by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which rated SpaMedica Preston as ‘outstanding.’ Karen Knapton, head of hospital inspection at CQC, commended the hospital, saying: “We were extremely impressed by the level of care. Attending hospital can be daunting, but staff here put patients at ease, explain the process thoroughly, and demonstrate a high level of compassion and respect.”
The hospital’s patient-centred ethos is evident in the approach of hospital manager Michelle Thornhill, who has managed the Preston team since 2023 after relocating from SpaMedica’s Skelmersdale branch. Thornhill, celebrating five years with SpaMedica this year, highlighted the unique bond the Preston team shares with patients, many of whom are from the local area. “We welcome patients like family,” she said. “Improving their vision and quality of life is so rewarding, and the appreciation we receive from patients makes us feel truly valued. One patient even told us, ‘not all superheroes wear capes.’”
SpaMedica, headquartered in Bolton, places a strong focus on professional development. Earlier this year, the organisation was awarded the Investors in People Platinum accreditation, an accolade achieved by only 7% of member organisations worldwide. Thornhill shared that this reflects SpaMedica’s commitment to its staff, saying: “It’s about championing growth and development, which we fully support here in Preston.”
Jordan Kenworthy, lead healthcare technician at the Preston site, began his career as a healthcare technician when the hospital opened in 2019. Over the years, he has witnessed SpaMedica Preston’s growth and describes his experience as transformative. “I’ve had the chance to work with incredible colleagues and make lifelong friends,” he said. After two years, Kenworthy was offered the opportunity to pursue a Level 5 apprenticeship, advancing his knowledge and skills. Now a scrub nurse and lead technician, he takes pride in supporting patients and helping them regain their vision.
Reflecting on the last five years, Thornhill shared her pride in the team’s achievements and the positive impact on the local community. “It’s rewarding to make a difference,” she said. “We’re excited to continue helping more patients in the future.”
SpaMedica advises patients experiencing cataract symptoms – such as blurred vision, difficulty with night driving, or fading colours – to speak with an optician. Under NHS guidelines, patients in England can choose where to undergo cataract surgery.
For more information, visit spamedica.co.uk.
