People, who need to undergo eye operations at Nelson Hospital, will need to wait or go for private help, because Nelson Marlborough District Health Board has limited eye surgery for all, but for just urgent cases.

In the DHB's latest hospital consultative committee panel agenda, Routine A referrals for Nelson eye patients will not be welcomed from April 1.

Dr. Sherwood stated that specialist referrals from GPs were divided into urgent, semi-urgent and routine A and B cases.

Routine B cases were with slight troubles, which were not likely to lead to long-term visual harms. But, Routine A cases comprised of fairly severe cataracts, early macular degeneration, eyelid problems and, what Dr. Sherwood stated to be most perturbing, was people, with potential glaucoma.

The DHB's Surgical Services District Manager, Ed Shepherd, stated that those with the most urgent need had to be treated first.

Dr. Sherwood opined that going private might really help, but up to what degree they can be successful, that cannot be said.

If someone really needs to be seen urgently, in that case their case might be considered.