More than 400 eye surgeries are expected to be carried out in Antigua and Barbuda this year as the Government continues to expand access to specialist vision care services through regional and international partnerships.
The update was presented by the Minister for Health, Wellness, the Environment and Public Service Affairs, who informed Cabinet that a team of specialist doctors from the Trinidad Eye Hospital is once again in Antigua and Barbuda to provide critical ophthalmological services under the annual collaborative programme involving the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and the Medical Benefits Scheme.
Cabinet was advised that this year’s mission is expected to deliver more than 400 eye surgeries to patients affected by various vision-related conditions, continuing an initiative that has significantly improved healthcare outcomes for many residents over the years.
The Minister also reported that the programme has been expanded to include a nationwide school screening initiative targeting early detection and treatment of vision impairments among students. Approximately 6,000 primary school students and 4,000 secondary school students across Antigua and Barbuda are expected to undergo eye examinations and screenings under the programme.
Officials stressed the importance of early diagnosis in improving educational performance and ensuring that students with visual impairments receive timely intervention and corrective support.
Cabinet further learned that the Government is expected to receive a shipment of free eyeglasses next week under the Prime Ministerial Vision Initiative, a programme developed in partnership with international non-governmental organizations including RestoringVision and VisionSpring.
The initiative seeks to establish community-based “Blind Free Zone” centres throughout Antigua and Barbuda to address preventable and correctable vision impairment at the community level.
Under the programme, reading glasses will be distributed immediately to individuals suffering from near-vision impairment, while low-cost prescription glasses will also be made available to persons requiring specialized corrective lenses.
Cabinet commended the Ministry of Health, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, the Medical Benefits Scheme, the Trinidad Eye Hospital and all international partners involved in the programme for their ongoing contributions toward strengthening healthcare delivery and improving quality of life for citizens and residents.
