Eye Care Program
Over the years, the district has made significant progress in combating cataract-related blindness by implementing a well-structured and community-focused eye care program. With an incidence rate of 200 new cataract cases per 100,000 people, the need for timely intervention remains high, requiring nearly 60,000 surgeries annually to achieve a cataract-free status. Through consistent efforts, quality eye care services now reach a population of around 14 lakh, ensuring better diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Mobile units play a crucial role by transporting patients identified in eye camps to dedicated surgical centers, making treatment accessible even in remote areas. In addition, large-scale screening initiatives have covered over 61,000 children, not only identifying vision problems early but also educating them about eye health and common symptoms.
The program also emphasizes capacity building and community participation. Teachers are trained to detect basic eye issues among students, while clinical staff continuously upgrade their skills through exposure visits and professional training programs. Community members are actively involved by identifying and supporting local eye health volunteers who assist patients throughout their treatment journey. Awareness campaigns highlight the social and economic impact of blindness, encouraging early diagnosis and timely care. By strengthening service management and adapting to seasonal demands, the program ensures reduced waiting times and improved patient satisfaction. For more than a decade, NIRPHAD has successfully integrated affordable eye care with community-based rehabilitation, creating a sustainable model that connects healthcare with overall socio-economic development.
Eye Care Services
1. Cataract Services
- Cataract screening through eye camps
- Free or low-cost cataract surgeries
- Transportation facility via mobile units
- Post-operative care and follow-up
2. Vision Screening & Eye Checkups
- Regular eye camps in villages and schools
- Vision testing for all age groups
- Early detection of eye diseases
3. Treatment of Common Eye Diseases
- Conjunctivitis (eye infection)
- Dry eyes
- Allergies and minor eye conditions