Mission Vision First Free Eye Health Check-up Camp for Underprivileged Children

 

Last weekend I went with my grandmother to our family ophthalmologist for an annual eye health check-up. I was keenly observing the process and equipment being used for the same. There were about four different machines that were used in the evaluation process and the whole thing looked to be a long-drawn tedious process. The ophthalmologist noticed my interest and struck up a conversation querying my keen interest in the check-up process, which turned out to be a great opportunity for me to introduce the doctor to ‘Mission Vision’.

 

To my surprise the doctor turned out to be very supportive and encouraging towards the cause. He explained to me how free eye check-up camps were conducted at hospitals he attended and gave me valuable insights about:

 

1. Experts involved in examination such as Ophthalmologists (Eye doctor), Optometrists (Tech person operating the intricate equipment) and Opticians (who dispenses spectacles).

 

2. Process for testing which involves steps like Patient registration, Preliminary vision examination (physical check-up, chart reading, refractive error screening etc.), Final examination by Ophthalmologist, counselling and optical correction service.

 

3. Different devices used for detecting vision impairment like the Auto-refractometer, Retinoscope, Ophthalmoscope or Funduscope, Snellen Chart reading etc.

 

It helped me understand and appreciate the technicalities involved behind vision correction and saving someone from becoming blind if not treated on time. The doctor also helped me to set up my first free eye health check-up camp by introducing me to a renowned NGO working to better the lot of underprivileged children community in India – CRY (Child Rights and You).

 

In my next blog, I will take you through my journey of setting up Mission Vision’s first free eye health camp. So stay tuned.