A total of 88 patients from Region Two have benefited from eye surgeries conducted at the National Ophthalmology Hospital in Port Mourant, Berbice.
The exercise was part of a coordinated outreach led by the Regional Democratic Council Region Two, the Ministry of Health, and the hospital.
Of the completed surgeries, 52 were cataract procedures, 18 were pterygium surgeries, and five were laser treatments. Additionally, seven patients received both cataract and laser surgery, three underwent cataract surgery along with a retinal specialist evaluation, and one patient had a combination of pterygium surgery and a retinal consultation. Two other patients were seen exclusively by a retinal specialist.
The outreach followed initial screenings at vision clinics at Suddie Public Hospital and Oscar Joseph District Hospital – Charity, conducted by the region’s sole optometrist, Angelina Lall. A special screening exercise was later held in April 2025 by an ophthalmologist and surgical team to assess patients for surgery.
Of the 101 patients confirmed for surgery, 10 fully sponsored and coordinated trips were arranged to transport them, with nursing staff accompanying the journeys between Region Two and Berbice.
Five patients were re-evaluated in Berbice and found ineligible for surgery; they are expected to be accommodated in the second phase of the outreach later this year. Four patients missed the trip—one due to illness and three due to a lack of communication from relatives—while another four said the timing was inconvenient and will be contacted for future sessions.
The outreach received critical support from Dr. V. Khirodar, who was commended for her role in organising surgical care for Region Two patients.
Special recognition was also given to Angelina Lall for her commitment, professionalism, compassion, and willingness to work beyond regular hours to ensure patients receive timely and effective vision care.
One of the beneficiaries, Mohanini Ramdass, expressed appreciation for the free surgery and shared that she was satisfied with the results and is currently recovering well.
