Mankweng Hospital commits to 200 cataract removal operations
Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba told CV that this commitment is in line with the call she made to provide health care services to the people.
POLOKWANE –Â Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba is concerned about the number of cataract patients in the province, which she says continue to cost so many people their eyesight. She made this statement during Eye Care Awareness Week, which the province held during Cataract Week at the Mankweng Hospital last Wednesday.
The hospital has, through its opthalmology department, promised to perform 200 cataract operations in this time.
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Ramathuba told CV that this commitment is in line with the call she made to provide health care services to the people. “It is shocking that many senior citizens are losing their eyesight everyday, which makes their lives difficult,” said Ramathuba.
She said this is a condition which can be easily treated surgically. “It is a pity that, due to a lack of knowledge and access to opthalmology services, our people continue to suffer due to blindness. As a department, we call on those who suspect blurred vision and loss of the sharpness of the eyesight, to visit a healthcare facility for proper referrals, for free. Eyesight is critical because there is no alternative. We need to take care of our eyes,” she said.
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She said their spectacles manufacturing machines are still in good condition.”The machines have brought huge relief to us as our patients no longer have to wait days to get their spectacles.” Ramathuba said they will run several campaigns aimed at teaching people about the dangers of cataracts.
One of the patients, France Rabophala (69), said he is happy to finally be operated on. Another patient, Pauline Mathosa (63), said she loves doing household chores but a cataract had left her with no option but to give it up.
“Through the power of our hospital today I can clearly see and witness everything happening around me,” said Mathosa.
