Residents of Matayos Sub County suffering from eye problems have benefitted from a free eye screening and treatment camp organized by Busia County government.
The County Eye Coordinator, Harriet Kavere said patients were screened and surgeries performed in the exercise conducted at Muyafwa Dispensary in Matayos South Ward. She said the most common problems were allergic conjunctivitis and cataract.
“After screening, we ascertained that some patients required eye glasses which were given free of charge while those with cataracts had surgery performed on them at no cost. Cataract surgery is very expensive especially in advanced hospitals,” said the eye specialist.
Kavere, who is also a cataract surgeon, emphasized that the main aim of the outreach was to ensure eye care services were taken closer to the locals.
She revealed that a similar exercise was conducted in several other health facilities including Nasira Dispensary.
Kavere further said the County Government was going on with plans to ensure eye care services are devolved to all the Sub County hospitals by opening satellite eye clinics.
“Apart from the eye care services being provided at the BCRH we also have satellite eye clinics at Kocholia and Khunyangu Sub County hospitals that are fully equipped to offer minor and major surgeries,” she said.
Patients interviewed appreciated efforts by the County Government to provide eye care services. “I am very hopeful that I’ll be able to see clearly and undertake normal duties without support from other people after the surgery,” said Nakalet Nyongesa, one of the beneficiaries.
By Absalom Namwalo
