Hundreds to Receive Cataract Surgery as Health Ministry Expands Eye Care Program

Hundreds to Receive Cataract Surgery as Health Ministry Expands Eye Care Program

Over 100 citizens and residents in Antigua and Barbuda will undergo cataract surgery this week, thanks to an ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Trinidad Eye Hospital. Spearheaded by Dr. Ronnie Bhola and his team, this initiative has been instrumental in providing vital eye care services to those in need since 2019.

Described as a “visionary partnership,” the program is designed to combat the growing demand for cataract surgeries in Antigua and Barbuda. To date, over 780 procedures have been performed. This week’s surgeries will bring the total closer to 900, and just recently, on September 26th, the initiative celebrated its 1,000th cataract removal.

Dr. Bhola, the Chief Surgeon at the Trinidad Eye Hospital, stressed the importance of early intervention. “Performing cataract surgery at an earlier stage greatly improves outcomes and reduces the risk of complications. Annual vision check-ups are key to identifying issues early,” he explained.

For Dr. Bhola, the program is not only about restoring vision but also about building local medical expertise. “We take pride in teaching and training staff at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre during our visits. Sharing knowledge and watching the local team grow is as rewarding as the surgeries themselves.”

The Health Ministry, which has backed the initiative from the start, remains committed to expanding its services. Dr. Bhola revealed that discussions with the Minister of Health are already underway to enhance regular screening and ensure continued access to cataract surgeries.

“The Minister has been incredibly supportive, and that’s why we’ve been able to conduct so many surgeries. We’re exploring ways to improve and expand services to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to eye care,” Dr. Bhola said.

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