In collaboration with Eye Health Africa UK, Mulago National Referral Hospital hosted a one-week free eye surgery camp, drawing more than 100 patients seeking assistance.
Dr. Jacob Ntende, an Ophthalmologist at Mulago Hospital, highlighted that the focus during the camp was on patients requiring cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to enhance both the function and appearance of the eye and its surrounding areas.
Out of the 120 patients examined, only 21 underwent surgery. Dr. Ntende emphasized the prevalence of individuals in need of oculoplastic eye surgery due to accidents and acid attacks. Oculoplastic surgery, a specialized type concentrating on eyelids and orbit facial structures, was the primary focus of the medical interventions.
Expressing concerns about the shortage of Ophthalmology doctors, Dr. Ntende stressed the necessity to recruit additional professionals at Mulago and regional referral hospitals. Currently equipped with only three Ophthalmologists, the hospital faces a significant patient load from various parts of the country.
Dr. Ntende welcomed the recent lifting of the recruitment ban by hospitals, anticipating it would address the human resource gap. He acknowledged that, despite having trained eye doctors in the country, their employment had been stalled.
Dr. Innocent Ayesiga from the Uganda-UK Health Alliance highlighted the annual camp’s activities, including skills transfer from English eye hospitals. This exchange aimed to enhance local health workers’ proficiency in providing diverse eye care services and involved donations to refurbish existing structures.
Dr. Emelia Ahebwa, another Ophthalmologist, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to acquire skills from specialists and collaborate with English surgeons to address various eye conditions.
Molly Mbabazi from Kyenjojo shared her experience, having been struck by a weighing scale on her eye. She recounted that Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital referred her to Mulago for treatment due to the complexity of her case, leading to a successful operation.
