‘Routine eye exams coming’

"For better glaucoma and diabetic management we will address the need for the visual field screeners and diabetic laser machines in our major hospitals," Rahael said, at the launch of the first World Sight Day observance in TT, hosted by volunteers for World Sight Day at DFL Building, Cipriani Boulevard.

Rahael announced a plan to offer routine eye exams for all people going to public health facilities as part of the ministry’s prevention and early detection programme. The regional observance of World Sight Day has been designated to take place on the second Tuesday in October while the International commemoration takes place today.

While medical assistance is being provided to people with eye problems through the Chronic Disease Assistance Programme, Rahael said the ministry was focusing on screening and early detection of problems with eye clinics being established at all hospitals. He said additional specialist positions will be created to employ local ophthalmologists returning from abroad.

He said the ministry is giving priority to establishment of screening protocols for eye problems experienced at all stages of life. Rahael announced a newly dedicated eye department will be established at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex to deal with referrals from the School Screening programme.

Volunteers for World Sight Committee Member, Petra Bridgemohan, said the observance of World Sight Day was one of the suggested regional strategies for eye care promotion, public education and advocacy as given in the strategic plan Vision 20/20: The Right To Sight, Caribbean Region document initiative of PAHO/WHO in 2002. The strategies outlined for delivery of "Right to Sight" include detection through active screening, diagnosis and management, monitoring and evaluation to provide effective service delivery and effective data collection.