01st August 2024 : Trilochan Netralaya, the largest eye care provider in Odisha, in partnership with Orbis, an international non-profit organization dedicated to preventing and treating avoidable blindness, launches a Green Vision Centre (GVC) in Bijepur, Odisha and dedicates it to the community. This initiative aims to enhance access to primary eye care services for communities in the region, marking a significant step towards comprehensive and Universal eye health for all .
The Green Vision Centre will serve a population of approximately 50,000 to 100,000, addressing most eye problems locally and only referring a small number of patients to secondary-level hospitals for further management. Strategically located in rural towns or villages with a minimum population of 10,000-15,000, these centers ensure accessibility with good transport connectivity and proximity to market hubs. The services provided at the GVC include comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosis and treatment referrals, follow-up care, first aid services, and eyeglasses dispensing. Outreach activities encompass door-to-door screenings, community camps, school and Anganwadi screenings, and eye health awareness initiatives by the community health workers.
Derek Hodkey, President and CEO of Orbis, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “The launch of the Green Vision Centre in Bijepur represents a significant advancement in our mission to provide accessible eye care to underserved communities. This initiative embodies our commitment to preventing avoidable blindness and ensuring that quality eye care is within reach for everyone.”
Dr. Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director, India, Orbis, highlighted the impact on local capacity building, saying, “The Green Vision Centre will play a crucial role in strengthening the capacity of Trilochan Netralaya and its community networks. By providing comprehensive eye care services and fostering early detection and treatment, we are taking a significant step towards improving eye health outcomes in the region.”
Dr. Shiva Prasad Sahoo, Founder Director of Trilochan Netralaya, added, “The setting up of Green Vision Centers will go a long way in strengthening our efforts to take eye care closer to the communities in an environment-friendly way. Driven by solar power, the Green Vision Center will provide uninterrupted primary eye care services to the community. Green outreach using eBikes allows the team to conduct community screenings efficiently.”
Patients requiring eyeglasses will receive counseling and be provided with eyeglasses at the GVC itself. Those who need advanced care or surgery will be referred to referral facilities in Bargarh and Sambalpur. The GVC will be networked with existing secondary eye hospitals to ensure seamless patient referrals and continuous care.
Orbis is a global non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring sight through hands-on training, public health education, and partnerships with local health organizations. Orbis transforms lives by ensuring access to quality eye care, advancing the skills of eye care professionals, and advocating for eye health worldwide.
Trilochan Netralaya is a leading eye care institution in Odisha, committed to providing high- quality eye care services to communities in need. With a focus on innovation, education, and patient care, Trilochan Netralaya strives to improve eye health and prevent blindness across the region.
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