CHEC, a healthcare provider delivering specialist ophthalmology services in partnership with the NHS, has completed the roll out of its community-based clinic provision with the opening of a fourth facility in Basingstoke. Since opening its doors, CHEC Basingstoke has been undertaking a project to open ‘spoke’ clinics across the region. Spokes act as extensions of the hospital’s offering, available in community settings including GP practices. CHEC says this unique operating model increases equity of access to specialist healthcare for people who struggle to travel to the hospital site, and relieves local waiting lists for outpatient, elective and diagnostic services. CHEC’s fourth spoke in Basingstoke has now opened at The Cambridge Practice, Aldershot, completing the roll out. Since September 2024, clinics have also become available at Park Surgery in Eastleigh, Pinehill Surgery in Bordon, and Andover Medical Centre in Andover. Julie Collins, Hospital Manager for CHEC Basingstoke said: “Since opening our doors, CHEC Basingstoke has completed over 57,800 consultations and carried out over 3,900 cataract surgeries, but we know not everybody feels able to visit the hospital. This could be due to transport or mobility issues, time constraints with work, or simply the need to feel comfortable in more familiar surroundings. “That’s why our community clinics – or our ‘spokes’ – are so important. They break down barriers and make it easier than ever for us to complete the healthcare journeys our patients are taking, speeding up the process and unlocking extra resources in local NHS services, too. “Now we have four community clinics up and running across Basingstoke, we look forward to seeing the invaluable difference we can make in the region.” In 2023/24, CHEC treated more than 372,000 ophthalmology patients with an average wait time of less than four weeks. CHEC hospitals span the country’s major towns and cities, and each hospital is supported by a minimum of three community clinics, placed in more remote locations, in line with where patients say access to NHS treatment is particularly challenging. To learn more about accessing the ophthalmology treatments CHEC provides in partnership with the NHS, please visit www.chec.uk CHEC recently welcomed Mike Reader, MP for Northampton South, to its Northampton Hospital. Mike Reader MP was invited to visit CHEC Northampton, based at Sol Centre to meet its team and gain a first-hand insight into the benefits of community healthcare, including improved patient choice, increased accessibility and shorter waiting times for NHS patients. CHEC provides ophthalmology and gastroenterology services to patients in Northampton and its surrounding areas, with its community approach to healthcare provision enabling patients to be seen in four weeks or less, dramatically enhancing their quality of life. Since opening its doors in 2022, CHEC Northampton has been undertaking a project to open ‘spoke’ clinics across the region, increasing equity of access to specialist healthcare and relieving local waiting lists for outpatient, elective and diagnostic services. Since November 2024, clinics have become available at The Long Buckby Practice, Saxon Spires Brixworth and Albany House Medical Centre in Swellingborough. Joshua Phillips, Hospital Manager, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Mike Reader MP to our hospital, and offer a real-time insight into how our processes and support team help to reduce local waiting times for vital procedures. “Since opening our doors, we have consulted thousands of patients, but we know not everybody feels able to travel as far as the hospital. That’s why our spokes are so important. They break down barriers and make it easier than ever for us to complete the healthcare journeys our patients are taking, closer to home. Now we have several community clinics across Northampton, we look forward to seeing the invaluable difference we can make in the region.” In 2023/24, CHEC treated more than 372,000 ophthalmology patients with an average wait time of less than four weeks. CHEC hospitals span the country’s major towns and cities, and each hospital is supported by a minimum of three community clinics, placed in more remote locations, in line with where patients say access to NHS treatment is particularly challenging. CHEC are celebrating the completion of its first cataract surgery training initiative for NHS registrars. Dedicated to providing future generations of ophthalmologists with high-quality and experiential training, CHEC welcomed a cohort of ST1 to ST7 registrars to its Preston, Blackpool, Coventry, Gateshead and Warrington hospitals, so they could gain real-time exposure to cataract surgery, a high-volume and essential procedure in ophthalmology. The training, which ran for 12 months up to February 2025, was delivered under the guidance of experienced consultants from CHEC. Trainees gained proficiency in phacoemulsification surgery – the gold-standard technique for cataract removal – using state-of-the-art phaco machines; advanced biometry technology; intraocular lens selection to ensure precision in vision correction, and premium intraocular lens implantation. They also received anterior segment management training to enhance their ability to address complex cases, and trained in the use of modern ophthalmic microscopes and instrumentation – critical for high-precision surgical techniques. Developed by Mahmoud Rabie, Clinical Director for Ophthalmology at CHEC, the training was delivered in partnership with NHS deaneries. A new cohort of NHS registrars are now undertaking CHEC’s second year of cataract surgery training provision, which began recently. The cataract surgery training comes alongside a series of additional initiatives, including a new CPD cycle which commenced in January. Last year, CHEC also launched an independent prescribing course placement, helping optometrists to develop their diagnostic skills and understanding of the links between the theory and practice of prescribing, ensuring they can manage patients therapeutically and issue necessary prescriptions. CHEC Clinical Director for Ophthalmology, Mahmoud Rabie Mahmoud said: “We have made a commitment to ensuring trainee ophthalmologists across the country have access to the opportunities and experiences they need to develop hands-on, professional skills. The completion of the first year of our cataract surgery training, and the upcoming launch of its second year, means we’re playing a key role in the development of future ophthalmic surgeons, and we’re pleased that we’ll be integral to their success. “We take it upon ourselves to be at the centre of developing ophthalmology talent in the UK and are in a fantastic position to offer these trainees the chance to work alongside our brilliant team to hone their skills in our specialist hospital environments. We look forward to seeing how this new cohort progresses, and to working with many more trainees in the future.” Berk Abay, an NHS registrar who recently completed the cataract surgery training with CHEC, said: “During my seven months as a trainee surgeon at CHEC Blackpool, I had the privilege of working under the guidance of expert ophthalmologists, whose encouraging and relaxed approach greatly boosted my confidence. Under their mentorship, I was able to significantly enhance my cataract surgery skills. CHEC’s theatre staff were incredibly supportive, always willing to assist, and their dedication to compassionate, patient-centred care was truly inspiring. “The culture at CHEC fosters an excellent learning environment, making it an invaluable place for trainee surgeons to develop their skills and grow in confidence.” Trainee surgeon Berk Abay with CHEC’s Moemen Elnawawy Any NHS deaneries interested in partnering with CHEC to provide ophthalmology training, or requiring additional information on the surgical programme, should contact education@chec.uk. CHEC supports community health and wellbeing beyond the clinic with local giving. CHEC are proud to reinforce our commitment to care in the community by donating £1,000 to OPAL, a Leeds based charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of people aged 60 and over. CHEC Leeds, based in West Park, donated vital funds to help ensure OPAL can continue supporting older people in the community and maintain its beloved Welcome In Community Centre. CHEC’s contribution reflects its ethos of care in the community, with both organisations aligned on the mission to provide meaningful support to local residents. Founded in 2002, OPAL works to reduce isolation and loneliness in the LS16 area, currently supporting over 760 members with the help of more than 100 volunteers. The charity works to improve quality of life by providing opportunities for social, health, and wellbeing activities such as exercise classes, social groups, and luncheon clubs. Finance streams are increasingly challenging for OPAL, with statutory funding set to decrease and competition for grants increasing in recent years. CHEC’s donation will provide much-needed support, helping the charity to continue delivering provisions that meet community needs. “I am incredibly grateful to CHEC for the generous donation. Our work changes the lives of older people, reducing loneliness and improving their quality of life,” explains Ailsa Rhodes MBE, CEO of OPAL. “Like most charities, we are facing very challenging times. We rely on the goodwill of others and really appreciate CHEC choosing to support us. This contribution will help us continue making a difference.” “CHEC Leeds is incredibly proud to support OPAL. OPAL’s work is vital to our community, providing essential support to those who need it most. We believe in strengthening the fabric of our local area, and OPAL does just that,” says Eleanor Rushforth, Hospital Manager. “Just like OPAL, we’re here to serve the people of Leeds and are dedicated to making a difference. Since opening our doors in September 2024, it’s become clear there was a real need for accessible, high-quality eye care in the Leeds community. CHEC Leeds has been delivering essential eye surgeries in four weeks or less, improving the lives of local people and contributing to the wider community.” To learn more about OPAL and how it enhances the lives of people aged 60 and over, please visit: https://opal-project.org.uk/ To learn more about the community healthcare services CHEC Leeds provides to local residents, please visit: https://chec.uk/location/leeds/ What a fantastic weekend it was at 100% Optical! The CHEC team was absolutely thrilled to connect with so many familiar faces and welcome a host of new ones to our stand. It was a whirlwind of engaging conversations, shared smiles, and a real buzz of excitement. Our stand was a hive of activity, and we were delighted to see so many people drawn in by our interactive experiences. We aimed to create a fun and informative atmosphere, and it’s safe to say we achieved just that! The cataract surgery activity proved incredibly popular, giving delegates the opportunity to complete a capsulorhexis, the surgical technique used to create a window in the anterior capsule wall of the lens of the eye to aid cataract removal. Hosted by clinicians from CHEC’s UK-wide surgical team, Dr Moemen Elnawawy and Juan Alberto Lopez Ulloa. Our chocolate selfie machine was a delightful hit, capturing countless smiling faces and creating sweet memories. And of course, who could resist a warm cup of free coffee on a busy exhibition day? A highlight of our weekend was undoubtedly welcoming students from across the country and provide them with their very first experience of eye surgery, guided by our expert ophthalmologist, Moemen. Witnessing their enthusiasm and curiosity was truly inspiring, and we hope this experience ignited a passion for ophthalmology in these future healthcare professionals. Olivia, a student of Optometry at the University of Hertfordshire said: “I’ve never tried anything like this before, and to be able to practice here with a CHEC Surgeon is really amazing!” Jose Bailey, Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Over the last 12 months, we continued to invest in the expansion of our hospital sites and further built on our ongoing success in training and professional development. 100% Optical was the perfect industry platform to share our latest updates as well as host practical experiences, and for delegates to get hands-on themselves. It was excellent to see optometry students share their ambitions and try their hand at cataract surgery with our Cataract Dry Lab. It was also the ideal opportunity for us to engage with industry peers about what we were collectively doing to improve eye care for our patients, which had, and always will have been, our number one priority.” The energy at our stand was infectious, with laughter and lively discussions filling the air. We were overwhelmed by the positive feedback we received, and it was a pleasure to connect with so many passionate individuals who share our dedication to eye care. Thank you to everyone who took the time to visit our stand. Your enthusiasm and engagement made our weekend at 100% Optical an unforgettable experience. We look forward to seeing you all again soon! Learn about our upcoming events Clinicians demonstrate surgical skills and share CPD opportunities on Stand E12a CHEC, a community healthcare provider delivering specialist ophthalmology services in partnership with the NHS, is returning to 100% Optical this year with a mixed programme that gives delegates the opportunity to get hands-on with cataract surgery, learn more about the company’s new CPD programme, and better understand the role of community healthcare provision in supporting patient choice. On stand E12a, CHEC is running a Cataract Dry Lab, enabling delegates to complete a capsulorhexis, the surgical technique used to create a window in the anterior capsule wall of the lens of the eye to aid cataract removal. Hosted by clinicians from CHEC’s UK-wide surgical team, Dr Moemen Elnawawy and Juan Alberto Lopez Ulloa, the Cataract Dry Lab gives delegates the chance to conduct the capsulorhexis procedure using surgical tools and artificial eyes. To help optometry industry professionals to better understand patient choice and navigate local referral pathways, CHEC will have a team of NHS Partnership Executives on-stand to discuss how community healthcare providers support the NHS in regions throughout England. Following the recent launch of its new CPD programme, which helps optometrists to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and improve patient care, CHEC will be sharing details of upcoming events. Ratified by the General Optical Council the programme of accredited CPD events has been designed to help professionals to keep abreast of the latest advancements and research findings in the field to continue to meet their professional requirements. For delegates looking to acquire CPD credits during the show, Dr Moemen Elnawawy will be delivering a CPD seminar on Sunday 2nd March at 10.30am. Held in the Optical Academy this one-hour session will explore ‘Global perspectives in glaucoma’ and all optometry professionals can register to attend. Commenting on CHEC’s plans for this year’s 100% Optical, Jose Bailey, Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Over the last 12 months we’ve continued to invest in the expansion of our hospital sites and further built on our ongoing success in training and professional development. 100% Optical is the perfect industry platform to share our latest updates as well as host practical experiences, like the Cataract Dry Lab, for delegates to get hands-on themselves. “It’s also the ideal opportunity for us to engage with industry peers about what we’re collectively doing to improve eye care for our patients, which has, and always will be our number one priority.” It’s that time of year again where Ramadan has arrived, a sacred month observed by Muslims around the world. It is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline, during which fasting is observed for 30 days from sunrise to sunset. What is fasting in Ramadan? Fasting, known as sawm in Arabic, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Between Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the evening meal), Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs. You may have heard these terms from your friends, colleagues, or family members who observe Ramadan. The fast is broken each evening with Iftar, while Suhoor provides essential nourishment for the day ahead. Why do Muslims observe Ramadan? Muslims observe Ramadan as a sacred month in Islam, marking the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is a time of reflection, devotion, and self-discipline, encouraging empathy for those less fortunate. Fasting serves as a reminder of life’s blessings and encourages kindness and charity. Nourishment and fasting Fasting for long hours can be physically demanding, making it important to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet during Suhoor and Iftar. A well-planned meal helps sustain energy levels throughout the day and supports overall wellbeing. Eat a wholesome Suhoor: Include slow-releasing carbohydrates like oats, whole grains, and proteins such as eggs and yogurt to keep you fuller for longer.Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine, as it can lead to dehydration.Break your fast wisely: Start with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), then opt for a balanced meal with lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre-rich foods.Avoid overeating: It’s tempting to indulge after a long day of fasting, but eating heavy, fried, or sugary foods can lead to sluggishness and discomfort. Moderation is key.Engage in light activity: Gentle movement like walking or stretching can help with digestion and overall well-being. How you can support your Colleagues during Ramadan If you work with colleagues who are observing Ramadan, there are simple yet meaningful ways to show your support and understanding. Be mindful of fasting hours: Avoid scheduling lunch meetings or team events centred around food during the day.Respect prayer times: Practicing Muslims may take short breaks for prayers throughout the day. Allow flexibility where possible.Adjust workload if needed: Energy levels may dip during fasting hours, especially in the afternoon. Offering support or adjusting deadlines, when possible, can be helpful. Show understanding: Fasting can be physically challenging, so be mindful that your colleagues might feel more tired than usual. A little empathy goes a long way.Educate yourself on fasting: Learn about what fasting involves, including that Muslims do not eat or drink anything from dawn to sunset and avoid making comments about food, hunger.Avoid assumptions: Not all Muslims fast due to health or personal reasons. Be respectful without making assumptions about someone’s observance.Join in the celebrations: Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration. Wishing your colleagues “Eid Mubarak” is a great way to acknowledge and celebrate their observance. Whether you observe Ramadan or are simply learning about it, understanding its significance and showing support can foster inclusivity and respect. A nutritious diet can help sustain those who are fasting, while awareness and thoughtful gestures from others can make the experience easier. 🌙 Ramadan Mubarak to all those observing! Wishing you a peaceful and blessed month. CHEC’s new Canterbury site set to reduce NHS waiting times and increase patient choice CHEC has confirmed it will be opening a new hospital in Canterbury. Based in central Canterbury, the conveniently located facility will help reduce NHS waiting times and increase patient choice by providing access to ophthalmology, ENT, and dermatology services in the community. The new hospital will be located at The Riverside in Canterbury city centre. With free underground parking and excellent public transport links, CHEC is currently fitting out its new building into a state-of-the-art clinical facility complete with one ophthalmology theatre. Working with the NHS, CHEC has more than 30 community hospitals and 90 community clinics nationwide. The addition of CHEC in Canterbury strengthens its existing Southern England stronghold, which already includes hospitals throughout Berkshire, London and Hertfordshire. “Patient choice, exceptional care and equity of access are central to CHEC’s operations and ethos, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with NHS partners nationwide, helping to keep waiting times to a minimum while delivering the very best quality of care,” explains Jose Bailey, Chief Commercial Officer at CHEC. “For well over a decade, we’ve been trusted by the NHS to deliver healthcare services free of charge, and we can’t wait to open our doors and become part of the Canterbury community. In the meantime, we’d welcome any residents to get in touch and learn more about how we work with the NHS to make much-needed treatments more readily accessible.” Upon opening, treatments will be within four weeks of receipt of referral. To register your interest in the services we will provide at our Canterbury site, please contact engagement@chec.uk.