Was told last november that I had a cataract coming in my left eye. NHS waiting time 12 weeks. Getting close to renewal time for my licence so chase the hospital up. They’ve no record for cataract but have me down for cornea referral. Need another consultation and possible further 12 weeks wait for cataract op.
No choice but to take medical and renew licence on specialist HGV medical site. Passed on medical and eyesight, so posted off to DVLA. Gets to date for licence to run out so phones DVLA. They’ve no record of receipt. Panic stations!! Book a medical with my GP to get it done quick. Doc needs eyesight prescription so get one from optician.No problem, I’ve already passed the last one. He says eyesight not good enough!! He can’t help as to why I passed the eye test the first time. Just told the TM I can’t work till eye sorted. Have now just booked a cataract op privately at cost of nearly £3000 in next 2 weeks. Have to do it this way, need the wages!!
Two lessons I have learned - Send the licence application by recorded delivery, and get some health insurance!! 
It could almost be called a comedy of errors, except it ain’t funny. Sending by registered is OK, but health insurance is an expensive joke (over here anyway). 12 weeks actually ain’t bad compared to here in Qld. I had one done at my own cost back 1997 because the public health list was 6 months or more !