The Ministry of Health recently brought its Eye Screening and Spectacle Voucher Programme to the residents of Strathavon Scheme in Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, providing essential eye care services to the community.
The programme offers residents a $2000 voucher for eye exams and a $15,000 voucher for glasses, ensuring accessibility to necessary eye care services.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, highlighted that two authorized vendors were present to conduct eye exams and prescribe glasses as needed, addressing gaps where local health centers cannot provide these services.
Dr. Anthony reported that approximately 70 individuals had their eyes tested during the initiative, with about 40 of them requiring spectacles.
He emphasized the positive response from the community, especially among older residents who benefited significantly from the programme.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging its impact on community health and individual well-being.
Arianna Thomas, a beneficiary, described the programme as helpful both to the community and personally beneficial.
Bhagwandin Ransarran highlighted the government’s commendable effort in providing assistance that particularly benefits the elderly and children in need of eye care.
The initiative targets Guyanese under eighteen and over sixty-five, recognizing the critical need for eye care in these age groups.
It underscores the Ministry’s commitment to early detection and prevention of eye-related issues through regular screenings.
The Eye Screening and Spectacle Voucher Programme not only addresses immediate health needs but also supports long-term community health initiatives, ensuring access to essential eye care services across various regions in Guyana.
By Samuel Gillis, NCN News