Federal Government Calls for Eye Care Integration into Primary Healthcare
The Federal Government has issued a strong call for the integration of eye care services into primary healthcare delivery systems, aiming to significantly expand access for millions of Nigerians in need of quality vision care. This initiative seeks to address widespread visual impairments through enhanced healthcare infrastructure and strategic partnerships.
Government Commitment to Vision Health
Senior Special Adviser to the President on Health Matters, Dr Salma Anas, made this appeal during the Eyeball Summit, organized by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. She emphasized the urgent need for actionable strategies to strengthen the health system and achieve universal eye care coverage across the nation.
Dr Anas reaffirmed the government's dedication to improving healthcare through innovation, partnerships, and equitable access, highlighting that good vision is essential for national development and individual wellbeing. She noted that the summit's theme, "Driving Innovation and Partnership for Sustainable Development," aligns perfectly with Nigeria's goal of attaining health equity for all citizens.
Challenges and Solutions in Eye Care
Dr Anas stressed the importance of developing sustainable financing models, fostering innovation in optical care, and expanding universal health coverage. She urged all stakeholders to recognize that improved vision can transform lives, boosting economic productivity and social engagement.
Also speaking at the event, Registrar of ODORBN, Dr Obinna Awiaka, pointed out that eye health is increasingly acknowledged as critical to public health, economic output, and social wellbeing. He revealed that millions of Nigerians continue to suffer from preventable or treatable visual impairments due to several factors:
- Poor access to eye care services
- Low public awareness about vision health
- Inadequate healthcare infrastructure
- Uneven distribution of eye care professionals
Innovative Approaches and Local Production
Dr Awiaka called for bold reforms and innovative approaches to transform eye care delivery in Nigeria. He highlighted several key drivers of change that could revolutionize the sector:
- Advances in diagnostic technologies
- Tele-optometry for remote consultations
- Artificial intelligence applications in eye care
- Digital health platforms for patient management
- Improvements in optical manufacturing processes
The registrar described the summit as a crucial platform for policy dialogue, investment opportunities, and collaborative efforts. He urged stakeholders to explore new service delivery models, expand community-based programmes, strengthen professional training, and foster greater collaboration among ophthalmologists, optometrists, dispensing opticians, and ophthalmic nurses.
Reducing Import Dependence
Dr Awiaka also expressed concern over Nigeria's heavy reliance on imported optical products, noting that frames, lenses, and related components are not manufactured locally. He called for strategic partnerships, including engagement with the Bank of Industry, to stimulate local production and reduce dependence on foreign imports, thereby creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Dr Awiaka reaffirmed ODORBN's commitment to regulating optometry practice, promoting ethical standards, and creating an enabling environment for innovation, partnerships, and investment. This comprehensive approach aims to improve access to quality eye care services nationwide, ensuring that more Nigerians can benefit from proper vision care.
