Eyecare: Millions of Nigerians lack access to vital services – OSN
A staggering number of Nigerians, particularly in rural areas, are denied access to essential eyecare services due to a severe shortage of ophthalmologists, the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria (OSN) warned on Friday, September 6.
With a mere 700 ophthalmologists serving a population of over 200 million, the country’s eyecare needs are woefully unmet, OSN President Dr. Abiola Oyeleye lamented during the society’s 49th Annual General Meeting and 48th Scientific Conference.
The shortage is exacerbated by healthcare workers’ mass exodus from the country in search of better working conditions, Dr. Oyeleye explained. To stem the tide, she urged the government to improve welfare conditions, provide equipment, and ensure security for healthcare workers.
The conference, themed “The Evolving Face of Ophthalmology,” aimed to update ophthalmologists on technological advancements. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, reiterated his administration’s commitment to healthcare delivery, including the construction of a 250-bed ultramodern hospital.
In a glimmer of hope, 34 new ophthalmologists were inducted into OSN, bolstering the ranks of specialists tackling Nigeria’s eyecare crisis.
