Eye care programs.
One of our most dedicated and long-standing partners is the ISEPS Global Ophthalmology Foundation. For over a decade, this organization has collaborated with CDF to enhance the eye care system in Quang Tri province. Together, we have worked to strengthen local healthcare infrastructure, train medical personnel, and expand access to vital eye health services. Through their continued support, the Illinois Society of Physicians and Surgeons has not only bolstered the local healthcare system but has also contributed significantly to the well-being of countless individuals in these communities. This partnership is a cornerstone of CDF’s efforts to promote sustainable health improvements, demonstrating the power of international collaboration in driving positive change.
Eyecare Outreach Program
Eyecare outreach programs are vital for improving community eye health. They empower local health workers with essential eye care skills, provide quality eye care services directly to rural communities, and ensure access to free eyeglasses. By raising awareness about eye health and facilitating timely access to care, these programs contribute significantly to improving the vision and overall well-being of children in underserved areas. Each mission has 4 steps.
Train the Trainers
Step 1
Eye Examination
Step 3
Student Screening
Step 2
Distribution of glasses
Step 4
01
Eye care outreach program
From 2017 uptill now, under stable funding from ISEPS Global Ophthalmology Foundation, CDF, in partnership with Quang Tri Eye Hospital, have conducted 8 missions to provide eye screening, examination and glasses distribution to nearly 120,000 students from 6 to 14 in 6 districts of Quang Tri province. Over 1,600 glasses were gifted to the students diagnosed with refractive errors. This outreach mission is the focal point for CDF's Eyecare Program since the goal of the program is to build capacity for local eyecare system so that they can help the grassroots community.
02
Health Staff Training
In order to build capacity for grassroots eyecare system, CDF and Quang Tri Eye Center have organized two short courses on Eyecare for over 50 Commune Health Workers from all over Quang Tri province. The courses equipped the learners with basic eye knowledge and skills in use of tools for detecting eye programs and referring the serious cases to higher levels of eyecare. 40 sets of basic eyecare equipment were gifted to the Commune Health Centers where learners are working.
03
Eye doctor training
In order to build capacity for Quang Tri Eye Hospital, CDF has sent a doctor from the Hospital to attend the Lancaster Course in Ophthalmology at Colby College in Maine and participate in medical observerships at the University of Illinois from June 15 to October 2, 2019.
Dr. Van Anh (photo), who has gained her Medical degree in France, is a talented young doctor in Quang Tri and was promoted to Deputy Directress of Quang Tri Eye Hospital. She represents the next generation of doctors who have access to most updated knowledge and skills from advanced countries in the world.
04
Equipment for Quang Tri Eye Hospital
Thanks to the funding from IGOF, CDF have been able to provide Quang Tri Eye Hospital with essential equipment for eye examination and treatment. The equipment cost reached nearly US$150,000 in value. These equipment, along with the trainings for eye doctors, have contributed to improve the capacity for examination, treatment and outreach in eyecare for the Hospital. With IGOF's funding, CDF have been able to provide Quang Tri Eye Hospital with a Phaco Surgery Machine, a Diabetic Retinography System and a Laser Machine.
