Eye health check up camp organised at SDH Uri

Uri, Jan 2: A mega eye camp was organised at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

In a statement issued by SDH Uri, the camp was described as a significant milestone. “We held the camp in December, and it has been a major achievement for us and all the stakeholders involved. Uri, being a remote area, faces multiple challenges, with healthcare being one of the most pressing issues. Through this camp, we aimed to address the eye-related issues of locals who would otherwise have to travel to Baramulla or Srinagar for treatment,” said Balwinder Singh, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Uri.

He said that a total of 310 patients were examined during the camp. “Out of these, 5 patients were diagnosed with Glaucoma, and 3 patients were diagnosed with Diabetic Retinopathy. Additionally, 65 patients were found to have low vision, while 50 patients were referred for further treatment or consultation. 44 patients received corrective eyewear,” he said.

“In terms of surgical interventions, 87 cataract surgeries were successfully performed, along with 5 pterygium extractions, bringing the total number of surgeries conducted to 93,” he said adding, “Surgeries were conducted under Ayushman Bharat scheme free of cost.”

The camp was inaugurated by MLA Uri, Dr Sajjad Shafi, and saw the active participation of a team of expert doctors and paramedic staff from the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, and SDH Uri.

The BMO expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders for their contributions. “We are grateful to Administrative Secretary Health, CMO Baramulla, SDM Uri, and the management teams of NHPC Uri I and NHPC Uri II for providing essential backing,” he said.