The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), in partnership with Rotary Club Trans-Amadi, has launched a free cataract surgery programme targeting 200 beneficiaries.
The exercise was flagged off on Monday, November 2, at the hospital’s Department of Ophthalmology by the Chief Medical Director, Professor Chituru Godwill Orluwene.
Orluwene commended the Rotary Club for supporting the initiative, which is expected to help people with cataracts access treatment without having to bear the cost of surgery.
He also called on individuals, corporate organisations and humanitarian groups to support efforts to improve healthcare delivery, particularly for people who cannot afford specialised medical treatment.
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Dr Godswill Nathaniel, the Lead Coordinator of the exercise, said 200 patients were expected to benefit from the programme.
Nathaniel, who represented the Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, highlighted the importance of such interventions in addressing avoidable vision loss and helping affected persons regain their independence.
A representative of Rotary Club Trans-Amadi, Mr Nze Anizor, said the organisation had supported humanitarian projects in healthcare, access to clean water and education, particularly for disadvantaged communities.
He also appreciated the hospital’s management for its support towards the exercise and expressed confidence in the successful implementation of the programme.
The event was attended by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Richard Echem, alongside staff of the hospital’s Department of Ophthalmology.
The initiative is expected to improve access to eye care for people who may otherwise struggle to afford cataract treatment.
