RESIDENTS of Region One in the Mabaruma District on Saturday benefitted from free eye test and spectacles as the Ministry of Public Health continues to collaborate with private sector agencies in holding medical outreaches across Guyana. Some 55 men, women and children were tested at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital for refractive errors and eye diseases, the Ministry of Public Health said Monday.
Persons were diagnosed with various eye ailments, which varied from astigmatism, pterygium, glaucoma and cataract. The eye examinations were performed by Dr. Shannon Da Silva, an Optometrist attached to Da Silva’s Optical.

Dr. Da Silva encouraged residents to have their eyes tested on a regular basis.
She commended the Ministry of Public Health for their willingness to collaborate with private sector agencies that are eager to volunteer their services in the outlying areas of Guyana.
Public Health Minister, Hon. Dr. George Norton during his visit interacted with residents and explained the Ministry’s plans for the Region in keeping with Health Vision 2020.
He stated that proper documentation was done for each patient and those diagnosed with eye diseases will receive specialist care as soon as possible.
Arrangements will be made for those persons to be brought to the City for surgeries at the Georgetown Public Hospital with the Ministry bearing the cost of travel and accommodation for such persons, Dr. Norton stated.
World Glaucoma Week will be observed from March 6-12, 2016 under the theme: “Check Your Eyes for Glaucoma.” The Ministry of Public Health will be collaborating with the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the Guyana Vision 2020 Committee to conduct free screening sessions during that week at the Georgetown Public Hospital, Eye Clinic from 12:00hrs to 15:00hrs. Appointments for free screening can be made at the Eye Clinic Clerical Desk from 9:00hrs to 14:00hrs before Monday 7th March or by email: gphcoph@yahoo.com.