By Sarah Ezeh
The Chief Optometrist and Chief Executive Officer of COV-OPTICS Eye Hospital, Awka, Dr Chikodi Oranuka, has urged Nigerians to prioritise regular eye screening and public sensitisation to reduce preventable visual impairment and blindness.
Oranuka, an ocular investigative expert, made the call during the unveiling of the hospital’s new South-East headquarters at Okpuno, Awka, Anambra State.
He identified poor awareness, poverty and delays in seeking professional eye care as major factors contributing to the prevalence of eye-related conditions in Nigeria.
According to him, early detection and prompt treatment of eye conditions could significantly reduce avoidable blindness.
He stressed that regular eye examinations were important even when individuals had no obvious symptoms.
As part of efforts to improve access to eye care, Oranuka announced a two-week free eye-test programme for residents of Awka and its environs.
He urged members of the public to take advantage of the initiative and make regular eye examinations part of their routine healthcare.
Oranuka said a comprehensive eye examination at the facility could cost as little as ₦10,000, excluding glasses and other services.
He added that regular screening and early intervention could reduce avoidable blindness by more than 50 per cent.
The optometrist said the new facility was equipped with modern diagnostic equipment, including an autorefractometer, non-contact tonometer, pachymeter, visual field analyser, slit lamp, optical coherence tomography (OCT) equipment and an advanced operating microscope.
He said the equipment would enhance the diagnosis and management of various eye conditions.
Oranuka said COV-OPTICS provides eye-care services for adults and children.
These include the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic eye disease, as well as paediatric eye care, vision screening, preventive services, prescription glasses and contact-lens fitting.
To address financial barriers to treatment, he said the hospital has established the Cove Eye Care Foundation to assist vulnerable members of society.
He explained that patients experiencing financial difficulties could access consultations, tests and procedures at reduced costs, with some services available for less than ₦25,000.
Oranuka also called for stronger partnerships among the Federal Government, Anambra State Government, healthcare providers, corporate organisations and individuals to expand access to quality and affordable eye care.
The optometrist, who holds a Doctor of Optometry degree and a master’s degree in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences Research from the United Kingdom, said the hospital had operated in Anambra for about four years from a rented facility before relocating to the new establishment.
He dedicated the facility to his late father, Chief Christopher Sunday Oranuka, whom he credited with supporting his education and inspiring him to pursue a profession that would benefit humanity.
The unveiling attracted government officials, health professionals, religious leaders, patients, community members and journalists.
Oranuka commended Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for prioritising healthcare development in Anambra State.
Participants at the event also commended the hospital’s efforts to expand access to eye care, particularly for less-privileged members of society.
Leave a Reply