In many countries there are large numbers of blind people whose sight could be restored with a low cost effective surgery. Many other could have avoided going blind if their problem had been recognized early and prevented. In this session we will discuss why many of these people may never get the eye surgery they need and how effective community eye care can change this situation in much of the developing world. We will discuss:
• major causes of avoidable blindness
• approaches to the community that work well
• technology that is appropriate for effective low cost and high volume eye surgery
• the case for static vs. mobile eye care units
• how to set priorities on a low cost eye care budget
• integrating spiritual care with eye care in the community