5 Key Characteristics of the UK Ophthalmology Market
The ophthalmology market is one of the most engaged-with sectors in our recently downloaded report, highlighting significant trends and structural patterns. Whether you're an investor, healthcare professional, or simply interested in the field, understanding these characteristics is essential. Here are five key insights into the ophthalmology market. The data below comes from our Rare Monitor system which profiles the UK private healthcare market.
1. Most ophthalmology clinics are part of large chains
A significant portion of ophthalmology clinics operate as part of larger networks rather than as independent establishments. This is a market with considerable consolidation.
Key statistics include:
85% of ophthalmology clinics are part of a chain
66% belong to a large chain (defined as 9+ clinics)
The top 4 providers account for approximately 25% of the overall market
Optical Express is the largest provider, while Optegra has the smallest presence among the major chains
Source: Rare Monitor 2024
Consistent with other areas of the private healthcare market, this consolidation suggests a preference for economies of scale and centralised management in the industry.
Shape of the UK Ophthalmology Market
Source: Rare: Monitor
2. The private market makes up a significant share of the market.
40% of ophthalmology clinics are private-only providers
41% are hybrid private-NHS
19% are NHS only
Understanding the balance between private, hybrid, and NHS-only ophthalmology clinics is crucial for patients, investors, and healthcare professionals. The dominance of private and hybrid providers (81% of the market) highlights the growing role of private healthcare in meeting demand, especially as NHS waiting times remain a concern. This trend also influences accessibility, affordability, and business opportunities in the sector, shaping how eye care services are delivered across the UK.
Source: Rare Monitor 2024
3. The distribution of services is not equal across the country
Ophthalmology services are not evenly distributed across the UK. The majority of clinics are concentrated in:
London
South East England
South West England
East of England
Map of the UK Ophthalmology market by region
Source: Rare Monitor.
This clustering likely reflects population density, demand for services, and business viability in these regions.
4. Wide variation in ophthalmologist-to-optometrist ratios by region
The number of ophthalmologists compared to optometrists varies significantly depending on the region. Here’s a breakdown:
Ratio of Ophthalmology: Optometry provider in the UK
Source: Rare Monitor.
These variations highlight regional healthcare access disparities and suggest that expansion opportunities may exist in underserved areas where ophthalmology services are currently limited.
5. A shortage of consultants in the market
One of the most pressing challenges in the ophthalmology sector is the shortage of qualified consultants. On average, consultants work across 5 different sites, suggesting that:
There may not be enough specialists to meet current demand, leading to consultants splitting their time across multiple clinics
High setup costs for independent clinics could be discouraging specialists from establishing their own practices, opting instead for more flexible arrangements
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists' 2022 workforce census revealed that over three-quarters (76%) of NHS ophthalmology units lack sufficient consultants to meet current patient demand, with more than half (52%) experiencing increased difficulty in recruiting consultants over the past year. This shortfall has resulted in a reliance on locum doctors, with 65% of units using locums to fill consultant vacancies, and 57% of these positions being occupied for over 12 months
Some consultants are affiliated with up to 18 different provider locations, highlighting how stretched the workforce is. This lack of available specialists makes recruitment and retention a challenge and could impact patient waiting times and service quality in certain regions. Addressing this shortfall will be critical for the continued growth and efficiency of the market.
If you have any questions regarding our Ophthalomogy data then please book a meeting with a consultant here.
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