Ugandan Retinopathy Plan
Successful advocacy in Uganda has led the Minister for Health Dr Jane Ruth Aceng MP to announce a government plan to roll out surgery for diabetic retinopathy to all regional hospitals. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (retina). It can cause blindness if left undiagnosed and untreated.
Dr Aceng said the disease is currently only treated at a few selected hospitals located mostly in the central region.
“When Retinopathy has already occurred, treatment is by surgical intervention. This is a specialised treatment and is only offered by ophthalmologists at Mulago National Referral Hospital. The Ministry of Health Eye Care Plan 2020-2025 proposes to extend these services to all regional referral hospitals through equipping, training and recruitment of specialists. Plans are underway to procure the much-needed equipment and train at least two people per year,” she said.
Dr Aceng MP said the ministry is promoting the need for early screening for diabetes and high blood pressure related retinopathy
Advocacy Action: The savings from early identification of eye problems are significant. Do you have a screening service? Can you advocate for one?