We carry out up to 6000 cataract surgery procedures a year. Many patients come to our clinics experiencing the symptoms of cataracts and are then listed for cataract surgery.

Digital assistant calls for cataract patients

To help more patients and improve cataract care, we have introduced Dora, an automated telephone assistant speaking with patients at key stages of their cataract treatment.

Dora works alongside our clinical team, gathering important health information and answering common questions. You can talk to Dora naturally, just like you would speak to a doctor or nurse.

Dora will call eligible patients at different points in their care:

• Before surgery (pre-operative assessment and pre-surgery) to check important details before your operation.
• After surgery (post-operative) to monitor recovery and answer questions.

We are one of a number of hospitals across the UK using this technology to help our hospital team work more efficiently, meaning patients can be seen quicker and more effectively.

What to expect

• If you have a mobile phone number, you’ll get a text message with the date and time of Dora’s call.
• Dora will try to call again at different times if needed.
• You can call Dora yourself at a convenient time, up to 48 hours before your scheduled call.

Patients will receive information about Dora in their appointment letters. For more details, see the Dora FAQs.

What happens during cataract surgery?

We have produced a short video to help you understand what cataracts are and how we carry out the procedure. The video includes essential information for patients having cataract surgery at Maidstone Hospital.

We are always interested in your feedback. Please provide your comments in the video channel.