The Jamaica-Cuba Eye Care Programme continues to make significant strides in restoring vision and improving eye health for Jamaicans, with a total of 1,230 sight-saving procedures conducted since its resumption in September 2023.

This collaborative effort between Jamaica and Cuba, which has been in operation since 2010, resumed last September after a hiatus due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Health Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton, the programme has been instrumental in providing essential eye care services to the populace.

Among the procedures performed, 368 cataract surgeries have been successfully completed, along with 160 interventions for pterygium patients. Additionally, 702 individuals have received laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy, addressing critical eye health concerns across the spectrum.

During a recent tour of the St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Andrew, Tufton expressed satisfaction with the programme’s performance, noting an average of over 100 patients attended to daily, with approximately 20 surgeries conducted per day. Patients have praised the quality of care, the efficiency of procedures, and the positive impact on their vision.

Natasha Biggs, the programme coordinator, highlighted the collaboration with the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH), where a 17-member team from Cuba is delivering treatments alongside local healthcare professionals. She affirmed the commitment to this partnership, with plans for continued support over the next three years.

Cuba’s Ambassador to Jamaica, Fermîn Gabriel Quiñones Sanchéz, said the programme is a testament to the continued friendly relationship and spirit of collaboration between the two countries and shared commitment to improving healthcare access.

“We are happy to know that the patients are happy because a big problem [that they have is being solved] and that is why doctors are here working with the Jamaican population. I think, in a year, thousands of Jamaicans will be receiving surgeries and the problems that they are having with their eyes will be solved very soon. “Cuban doctors will continue supporting Jamaican people. They have been here
for many years and will continue to support the healthcare of the Jamaican population,” he added.