No fewer than 250 persons living with disabilities in Plateau State, North central Nigeria have been offered free medical eye treatment by the state government in partnership with Sight Savers International and the Health and Developmental Support Programme.
The two-day event, which concluded on Sunday, took place at the General Hospital in Shendam Local Government Area under the Plateau State Eye Health Programme.
Programme Officer for Eye Health at Sight Savers International, Dr Joshua Yibenu, explained that the programme seek to establish a comprehensive, affordable, accessible, and sustainable eye care system in Plateau State,
He commended the state government for their support and highlighted the need for the employment of healthcare workers and the retention of retired ophthalmologists to ensure the project’s continuity.
“We have worked with the state government to ensure that we have highly subsidised costs so that even after Sight Savers has left the state, Plateau will still have a robust capacity to sustain the project beyond our intervention,” Yibenu said.
Programme Director for HANDS, Dr Innocent Emenrunwa, emphasised the importance of raising awareness and preventing avoidable blindness.
He noted that common eye issues among patients included glaucoma and cataracts, which can be treated locally or referred to Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for specialised care.
“Due to the level of expertise and the equipment available, this project has made it possible to perform procedures that were previously not feasible here because of a lack of personnel, infrastructure, and equipment.
“With this project, we now have the equipment necessary to carry out major surgeries, such as glaucoma and cataracts. However, when a condition arises that cannot be managed here, it is referred to Jos University Teaching Hospital,” he said.
Our correspondent reports that the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Mr Zinven Alama, who is physically challenged, received treatment for his eye condition, while Mr Sunday Barry, who had experienced eye problems for 30 years, was delighted to receive free medication and glasses.
“I really appreciate their effort. My left eye began to malfunction due to high blood pressure, but I have received treatment and am feeling better. The only thing I am waiting for now is my glasses,” Alama said.
Another beneficiary, Gurumnan Dingul, thanked the organisers for the free treatment and highlighted the need for such support for those unable to afford medical fees.
“They checked my eyes and said I need reading glasses. I am waiting for my final check-up to determine my exact prescription. I am very grateful to the organisers of this programme for helping us, the less fortunate,” Dingul added.
The programme demonstrates the impact of collaboration between organisations and government in addressing healthcare needs and improving the lives of persons with disabilities.
SOURCE: PUNCH NEWS
