Help blind children in Inner Mongolia, China

1. Capacity building 1.1 Three-month Ophthalmological training In the first two quarters of 2009, five doctors from our Baotou eye care network received training during two separate three-month workshops at Bao Tou Eye Hospital (BTEH). The ultimate aim was to enable trainees to provide more specialized pediatric eye care services to children in their catchment areas.

1.2 National oculoplastics training workshop Dr Ma Liping attended a national oculoplastics training workshop between April 1st and 4th in Nanjing Tongren Hospital. Skills shared included treatment of ptosis, pterygium, cicatrial ectropion and ocular prosthesis.

1.3 Training of local doctors in the network Between January and March 2009, Dr Ma Liping, Dr Zhao Leyi and Dr Hou Liwen of BTEH made 10 visits to offer technical support to the branch center in Damao Qi County and vision centers in Siziwang Qi County, Shaerqin Township and Haye Hutong Township. During the visits, each doctor provided consultation and treatment for complicated cases which staff at the branch center and vision centers were unable to handle by themselves. The three BTEH doctors also demonstrated surgical techniques for cataracts, glaucoma, strabismus and pterygium. In all, eight local doctors were trained. After training, each of these doctors was able to manage certain conditions, identify patients needing referral and provide patients with important eye care information.

1.4 Training of community health workers (CHWs) A total of 27 CHWs from Su Bo Gai Township received their first-ever primary eye care training between March 25th and 27th, 2009.

2. Increasing public awareness 2.1 Second World Glaucoma Day To mark March 12th World Glaucoma Day, BTEH organized an eye health education campaign, increasing the awareness of some 500 people through face-to-face consultation and brochure distribution.

2.2 Screening activities Outreach screening remains an effective way of identifying and treating many eye conditions during their early stages. Such screenings also enhance public awareness of eye care and protection.

The BTEH project screened around 60,021 people during the first two quarters of 2009.