Date: 10th to 13th September
Location: Tana River County, Hola Subcounty Hospital and Bura Subcounty Hospital
Introduction
A four-day free medical eye camp was held from 10th to 13th September in Tana River County, Kenya. The event was aimed at providing much-needed ophthalmological services, including free eye screening and surgeries, to underserved communities in the region. The camp was conducted at two venues, Hola Subcounty Hospital and Bura Subcounty Hospital, and was sponsored by Kuwait Horizon Charity Society in partnership with Safe Surgical Aid. The medical camp was also supported by the Tana River County Government’s Department of Health.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the free medical camp were to:
- Provide free eye screenings to identify various eye conditions among the residents.
- Offer free surgeries for those diagnosed with correctable visual impairments, particularly cataracts and other treatable conditions.
- Improve the overall eye health of the community and raise awareness about eye care and preventable blindness.
Participants and Procedures
A total of 300 patients attended the free eye camp to undergo eye screening and receive appropriate medical attention. Out of these, 213 patients were identified as needing eye surgeries, which were successfully performed over the course of the four-day camp. The types of surgeries carried out included cataract removal and other sight-restoring procedures.
Screening and Diagnosis:
- All 300 patients received comprehensive eye checkups, which included visual acuity testing, intraocular pressure measurement, and slit-lamp examinations to identify cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions.
- Patients requiring surgery were scheduled for the appropriate procedure, and those with minor conditions received necessary treatments or prescriptions.
Surgeries Conducted:
- Of the 213 surgeries performed, the majority were cataract extractions, as cataracts remain one of the leading causes of blindness in the region.
- Other procedures included pterygium removal and treatment for glaucoma.
Sponsorship and Collaboration
The medical camp was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Kuwait Horizon Charity Society, which provided the necessary funding for equipment, medication, and logistical support. The actual surgical operations were conducted by Safe Surgical Aid, a medical non-profit organization specializing in safe and affordable surgeries for low-income communities.
The Tana River County Government’s Department of Health played a critical role in organizing the event, providing facilities, and mobilizing the community to attend the camp. Through the collaboration of these three entities, the medical camp was a major success, meeting the healthcare needs of hundreds of residents who otherwise lacked access to specialized eye care.
Challenges and Solutions
- High Patient Turnout:
The number of patients seeking services exceeded initial expectations. However, the medical team, equipped with the necessary surgical tools and adequate personnel, managed to screen all 300 patients and perform the required surgeries. - Logistical Challenges:
Given the remote locations of Hola and Bura, transportation of medical equipment and personnel posed a challenge. However, the county government helped in coordinating transportation and ensuring the smooth delivery of services.
