The Free Cataract Surgeries & Rotary (Ophthalmic) Eye Centre at Bapji Jeevandeep Multispecialty Hospital & Charitable Trust in Chalisgaon addresses a critical need for high-quality ophthalmic services in a community with significant blindness and eye-related issues, particularly among the poor and rural populations. The service area, covering 500,000 people, has a substantial backlog of blindness cases and a high annual incidence of new cataract cases. The project's goals are to provide comprehensive eye care of international standards to all societal segments at affordable costs, ensure free or subsidized treatment for those who cannot afford it, extend outreach services to remote villages, create community awareness about eye health problems, and support the National Program for Control of Blindness.
Key activities include setting up the facility with necessary equipment, instruments, and manpower to handle a significant outpatient and surgical load, performing cataract and other eye surgeries, managing a daily clinical load of 50 outpatients and 10 surgeries, conducting weekly screening eye camps in villages, and managing non-medical activities such as patient load generation, medical records, inventory, housekeeping, and security. The Rotary Club of Chalisgaon Royals plays a crucial role in fundraising, community engagement, and project management to ensure the project's success.
The estimated cost of the project includes Rs.22,740.80(USD) for medical supplies for free cataract operations and medicines, and Rs.20,859(USD) for diagnostic, surgical, and laboratory equipment, as well as furniture and other necessary items, bringing the total estimated cost to Rs.43,600 (USD). The Rotary Club of Chalisgaon Royals' involvement in this project may stem from previous successful projects or collaborations, building trust and proving capability in managing similar initiatives. If there is no prior relationship or grant history with the host partners, the club's involvement likely arose from identifying a critical community need and forming partnerships based on shared goals and a commitment to improving local healthcare. The club collaborated with local healthcare providers, community leaders, and other Rotary clubs to initiate and develop this project.
The direct beneficiaries of the project are individuals who are poor & needy suffering from eye-related health issues, particularly those with cataract problems. The project primarily serves the community in and around Chalisgaon, with a focus on the rural and poor population constituting a significant portion of the patients. The project aims to provide free or subsidized treatment to those who cannot afford it, and it includes outreach services in remote villages to ensure comprehensive coverage
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