Tele-Ophthalmology Program Launched In Nepal By Noor Dubai Foundation

The Noor Dubai Foundation, in partnership with Nepal Netra Jyoti Sangh (NNJS), has launched a tele-ophthalmology programme to improve eye care access in remote areas of Nepal. This three-year initiative will use advanced telemedicine technology across 15 health centres in Koshi and Madhesh provinces, offering primary care, expert consultations, and training, according to Online Radio Nepal.

Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO of the Noor Dubai Foundation, highlighted the transformative potential of tele-ophthalmology. She emphasised the use of the Eye Smart application for real-time data sharing and technology-driven insights to optimise healthcare delivery and ensure efficient patient care. The initiative will cost AED1,07,252 and benefit more than 11 million people.

Dr. Sailesh Kumar Mishra, Executive Director of NNJS, praised the collaboration for addressing healthcare challenges posed by Nepal’s difficult terrain. He reported that the programme had already facilitated over 1,000 surgeries and patient screenings in Koshi Province through surgical camps and the distribution of free spectacles and medicine.

"This programme aligns with the UN resolution recognising eye care as part of Universal Health Coverage and supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," said Dr. Taryam. She noted the initiative’s potential to reduce healthcare costs and carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.

The initiative aims to improve primary eye care for 433,000 patients and provide expert consultant reviews for 82,000 individuals via tele-ophthalmology over three years. This is crucial in a country where 6.8 million people suffer from vision loss, with only 8.4 ophthalmologists per million people," said Dr. Mishra.

This programme will utilise advanced telemedicine technology across 15 health centres in Koshi and Madhesh provinces, providing primary care, expert consultations, and training.

The Noor Dubai Foundation's collaboration with NNJS represents a significant step towards enhancing eye care accessibility in remote areas of Nepal. The use of tele-ophthalmology is expected to make a substantial impact on healthcare delivery by leveraging modern technology to overcome geographical barriers.

With inputs from WAM