26th March 2024, Colombo: Vision Care, Sri Lanka’s largest vision, hearing and eyewear solutions provider, marked World Optometry Week with the launch of “Vision Care Primary Eye Screening Program,” as well as the introduction of the ‘Vision Care Eye Screening and Educational Toolkit’ This nationwide initiative aims to promote eye health awareness among school-aged children as well as private and public organizations, while empowering communities with essential tools for eye health promotion. Aligned with the global theme for World Optometry Week, “Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care,” this initiative underscores Vision Care’s dedication to ensuring accessible and equitable eye care for all. Emphasizing the pivotal role of optometrists worldwide, this theme highlights the significance of providing comprehensive eye care services to communities, irrespective of their geographic location or socioeconomic status.
During the launch event, Vision Care distributed a tailor made ‘Vision Care Eye Screening and Educational Toolkit’ to over 100 schools across Sri Lanka. This toolkit comprises essential components including comprehensive eye screening tools, educational materials, and guidelines for implementing effective eye health programs within school settings. Additionally, it provides access to professional support, connecting schools with local optometrists and eye care professionals for further assessments and treatments if necessary.
Dr. Amila De Alwis, Consultant eye surgeon and President of The College of Ophthalmologists Sri Lanka, offered an ophthalmological perspective on the importance of optometry in Sri Lanka stating, “Optometry plays a crucial role in the broader landscape of eye care in Sri Lanka. As the healthcare landscape evolves, it is imperative to prioritize the advancement of optometry education, professional training and regulation. In this way we can ensure that they are well-prepared to address the diverse eye care needs of our population”. He also stated the importance of increasing general awareness and screening for areas such as glaucoma, diabetes related eye problems and children’s vision issues to pick these up early, thereby enabling better outcomes.
Harsha Maduranga, General Manager of Vision Care, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “At Vision Care, we believe that good eye health is fundamental to overall well-being. Through this initiative, we aim to empower communities with the necessary tools and knowledge to prioritize eye health, starting with our younger generation. With 2.2 billion people in the world experiencing some form of visual impairment, according to WHO, the role of optometrists is more crucial than ever. In Sri Lanka alone, we have over 1000 optometry practitioners dedicated to providing primary eye care services. At Vision Care, we are proud to have nearly 200 optometry practitioners actively conducting primary eye checkups daily, ensuring that individuals receive timely attention and care for their eye health needs.”
Vidya Jayarathna, Head of Academy cum Head of Optometry at Vision Care, emphasized the company’s commitment to nurturing future eye care professionals. “The Optometry Profession, both globally and locally, plays a crucial role in the frontline against preventable vision impairment. Discussing the global and local significance of optometry underscores its pivotal role in ensuring access to eye care services for all individuals. ‘Vision Care Primary Eye Screening Program’ and the ‘Vision Care Eye Screening and Educational Toolkit,’ serve as invaluable assets for fostering eye health awareness and enabling early detection of vision issues. Furthermore, comprehensive information and support are available through the Vision Care branch network. We encourage schools and organizations to reach out to Vision Care to leverage these resources and receive additional assistance in establishing effective eye health initiatives within their communities.”
Any institute interested in acquiring one of these eye screening tool kits for their respective communities can easily do so by contacting Vision Care through their WhatsApp number 0761253094. Through collaborative efforts, Vision Care envisions a future where every individual has access to quality eye care, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.
Since its establishment in February 1992, Vision Care has been at the forefront of revolutionizing Sri Lanka’s eye care industry. Through a team of highly trained optometrists and cutting-edge equipment, the company consistently delivers scientifically driven, world-class products and services. Vision Care offers an extensive range of internationally acclaimed brands of spectacles, contact lenses, sunglasses, and hearing aids, catering to diverse budgets and lifestyles.