A total of 250 persons living with disabilities in Plateau State have received complimentary eye care services, courtesy of a collaboration between the Plateau State Government, Sight Savers International, and the Health and Developmental Support Programme.
The two-day initiative, which wrapped up on Sunday, was held at the General Hospital located in the Shendam Local Government Area as part of the Plateau State Eye Health Programme.
Dr. Joshua Yibenu, the Programme Officer for Eye Health at Sight Savers International, stated that the primary objective of the programme is to create a comprehensive, affordable, accessible, and sustainable eye care system within Plateau State.
He praised the state government for their commitment and stressed the importance of hiring healthcare professionals while retaining retired ophthalmologists to ensure the ongoing success of the project.
“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 stated.
Furthermore, Dr. Innocent Emenrunwa, Programme Director for HANDS, underscored the significance of raising awareness and preventing avoidable blindness.
He pointed out that prevalent eye conditions among patients included glaucoma and cataracts, which can either be treated locally or referred to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for specialized 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 explained.
Beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Mr. Zinven Alama, who is physically challenged, received treatment for his eye condition.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sunday Barry, who had suffered from eye problems for three decades, expressed his joy at receiving 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,” said Alama.
Another recipient, Gurumnan Dingul, also expressed gratitude towards the organisers for the free treatment and emphasized the importance of similar support for those unable to afford medical expenses.
“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.
This programme exemplifies the positive outcomes that can result from collaboration between various organizations and government entities in addressing healthcare needs and enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities.
