Eye (ophthalmology)

Rapid access eye service

Our rapid access eye service is now a referral and booked service for short-term eye emergencies only.

If your condition is urgent, please call our eye casualty telephone service.

Phone: 020 7188 4336

Opening times: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4pm

If you need urgent advice out of these hours, please call 111.

This service is for existing patients and those who live in south east London.

You'll be assessed and given the most appropriate appointment slot.

A clinician will aim to call you back within 1 hour.

This is not an examination. The telephone call is a chance for you to speak to an eye clinician to determine whether you need to attend our rapid access eye service

This service does not replace a full eye examination. You may be asked to come to hospital for a further examination.

Please remember:

• if you're under the care of another eye department or hospital, you must contact them for advice first
• if you live closer to another eye unit, we'll redirect you there

We may not see you if your condition is not an emergency.

If you're in immediate danger and require urgent help, dial 999.

Stretcher patients

We do not accept patients on a stretcher, except in exceptional circumstances. 

In exceptional circumstances specific arrangements must be made directly with the accepting consultant or sub-speciality. Evidence of this arrangement must be given to the ambulance staff who transport the patient to the department.