Driven by a wealth of community-based data, we are contributing to a global body of health research and informing national eye health policies. We are focused on harnessing the power of data to support the effectiveness of our model and contribute to a growing body of peer-reviewed research in the global eye health sector. This makes us a key collaborator in informing national eye health policies and strengthening local health systems.
In Ghana, where little to no data previously existed regarding visual impairment, we led the country’s first-ever blindness and visual impairment survey in partnership with the Ghana Health Service and others. The data has become a go-to source for information for the government and NGOs, and it informed Ghana’s eye health policy and health program planning. Watch our video to learn more:
Also in Canada, we are advocating for eye health care to be incorporated in universal health care. We are part of a coalition of eye health organizations collaborating to inform Canada’s National Strategy for Eye Care Act, which was passed by the federal government in November 2024. Read our response to the passing of Bill C-284.
2024 updates
Joining conversations at a global event in Mexico: In June 2024, President & CEO Kashinath Bhoosnurmath and Marketing and Communications Director Elizabeth Roden attended 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE in Mexico City. The annual event is organized by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) to bring together global medical professionals and eye health organizations. Here, Kash poses beside our poster presentation, which shared the findings of our Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) study conducted in Kenya.
Supporting Canada’s National Strategy for Eye Care Act: In November 2024, when the Government of Canada passed Bill C-284, the National Strategy for Eye Care Act, we shared our statement, applauding the passage of the Bill. Our Calgary team had been participating in conversations regarding the Bill since 2022. We plan to have a seat at the table during the upcoming consultation period.
Leveraging World Sight Day to advocate and educate: World Sight Day, an annual awareness day in October spearheaded by the IAPB, is a chance to focus the world’s attention on the importance of eye health and inspire people to take care of their eyes. In addition to providing eye health screenings and education, we used World Sight Day 2024 to advocate for universal health care that incorporates eye health care. We attended 15 meetings with partners, policy makers, and local and national governments.
