To strengthen early detection of eye diseases, improve eye care management, and ensure timely referrals, health assistants of eastern districts are undergoing training. Nearly 200 health assistants are attending it, which is being conducted in batches.
The health assistants are being trained in basic eye care skills including eye examinations, vision assessment, preventive measures, and the management of common eye diseases.
In addition to theoretical sessions, they are also receiving hands-on practical training.
Until now, the health assistants working in Primary Healthcare Centres did not provide such medical services.
The training aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide basic eye care at their community level and prevent avoidable blindness by providing timely medical intervention.
Langa Dorji, Health Assistant of Chhoekhorling PHC in Pema Gatshel said “I am attending eye care training for the first time. It has been very beneficial for us. Previously, we struggled with delayed referrals due to our limited knowledge, and we were unable to provide adequate services.”
Dago Wangmo, Health Assistant of Tangmachhu PHC in Maenbi Gewog, Lhuentse said “Earlier, we had to send both children and adults to hospitals for eye screenings. Through this training, we can now conduct screenings ourselves, reducing the need for hospital visits and associated expenses. I have learned how to diagnose eye conditions and refer cases before complications arise.”
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Mongar Regional Referral Hospital, is organising the training in Trashigang. The three-week-long programme will end on Saturday.
In 2023, Monggar Regional Referral Hospital conducted 270 cataract surgeries, and the number increased to more than 400 last year during the eye camp.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tshering Zam
