Luna, Apayao – To better serve the growing number of people needing eye care services in the province of Apayao, its provincial government through the Provincial Health Office (PHO) in partnership with the Fred Hollows Foundation launches this August the ‘Eye Health Systems Strengthening Integration (EHSSI) Program’ for all yApayaos.
The Fred Hollows Foundation cited that more than two million people in the Philippines are living with visual impairment, and 62% of them have cataracts.
Adding to the disparities, people with visual impairment live below the national poverty line and are concentrated in rural areas where eye care services are difficult to access.
Said comprehensive eye care services in Apayao will be of great help, especially to underprivileged families. Gov. Elias C. Bulut Jr has long been emphasizing in his advocacies the urgency of prioritizing health care services primarily those members of the underserved communities. Thus, he has been on the frontline of supporting and at times spearheading public health policies, projects, and special programs.
This project, according to PHO, will give yApayaos high-quality and accessible eye care services, achieved through comprehensive and suitable community eye health programs.
The process of eye care services
The provision of eye care services shall be done with the concerted work of ophthalmic units. It starts at Primary Care Facilities for minor eye diseases and health promotion activities, vision screening in the community and schools.
After the screening, referrals are made either to the volunteer optometrist for refraction or to the ophthalmologist for other eye diseases, as well as the provision of free eyeglasses.
Meantime, specialized services are offered by partner Ophthalmologists at the Far North Luzon General Hospital & Training Center (FNLGHTC) for diseases needing definitive care and interventional procedures will also be available.
On August 6, 2024, a conjunction of Sight Saving Month will also be celebrated to promote public awareness regarding the importance of eye health and the prevention of blindness.
This, according to PHO, is crucial to ensure that the people of Apayao have access to high-quality, integrated eye care services, and prevent the widespread of eye diseases.
The PGA, meanwhile, is collaborating with the DOH, Municipal Local Government Units, and other stakeholders involved in the Eye Health team across the province to reach areas that have been underserved.
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