Kasturba Medical College Hosts Eye Care Workshop for Government Community Health Officers
In collaboration with the District Health and Family Welfare Department and District Blindness Control Society
Manipal, May 26, 2023: In collaboration with the District Health and Family Welfare Department Udupi and District Blindness Control Society Udupi District, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital Manipal successfully organized a highly informative one-day workshop.
The workshop catered specifically to Government Community Health Officers responsible for Health and Wellness Centers, focusing on enhancing their understanding of eye and related diseases, as well as the implementation of effective blindness control programs.
The inauguration of this program took place at the Interact Hall in MAHE Manipal, with District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr. Nagabhushan Udupa addressing the attendees.
Highlighting the significance of the workshop, Dr. Udupa expressed his hopes that the Netra Pradhan program, conducted for the first time in the entire state in collaboration with Kasturba Hospital Manipal, would serve as a model for the rest of the state. Dr. Udupa commended Kasturba Hospital for the valuable support in driving this program forward.
During his impactful presidential address, Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, the Dean of KMC, shed light on the prevalent eye problems experienced by individuals, even from a young age, due to the excessive use of mobile phones and television. He emphasized the crucial role of timely medical intervention in effectively addressing these issues. Dr. Hegde assured full support and cooperation from the hospital in all programs initiated by the district health department, underscoring their commitment to promoting overall well-being.
Dr. Latha Nayak, the District Blindness Officer, highlighted the workshop’s significance in early detection of eye-related diseases in rural areas, thereby ensuring timely access to necessary treatment.
Dr. Avinash Shetty, the Medical Superintendent, presented mementos to the distinguished guests. Dr. Ashwini Kumar Gopadi, Professor and Head of the Department of Community Medicine, welcomed all attendees, while Dr. Yogish Kamath, Professor and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, delivered the vote of thanks.
The resource persons for the workshop included Dr. Neetha KIR, Associate Professor, Dr. Sushan Shetty, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Rashmi K from the Department of Ophthalmology at Kasturba Hospital Manipal, who shared their valuable expertise.
Approximately 250 Community Health Officers actively participated in the workshop, representing Health and Wellness Centers in Udupi district. Their attendance ensured they benefited from the valuable insights and knowledge shared during the program. Dr. Shruti served as the Master of Ceremony.
