Globally at least 670 million people are blind or vision impaired simply because they don't have access to an eye examination and a pair of glasses.

Since 2010 ICEE has continued the development of eye health services and expansion in Samoa.

Moototua Hospital Eye Clinic and an Optical workshop have created in-country opportunities for eye health education and training. This year training sessions in vision screening were conducted across primary schools in February 2011. As a result, 25 teachers from Savaii have taken part in this valuable training which has equipped them with the skills to identify uncorrected refractive error, arrange follow up clinics for spectacle prescription; fitting and/or supply of low vision aids and to make referrals for further medical assistance.

Additionally a 'Train the Trainer' Workshop has helping to provide ongoing vision screening training for years to come.

In Apia and Savaii identification of uncorrected refractive error in children 5 to 12 was conducted and already teachers are reporting better outcomes for those children who needed spectacles or other care to correct vision problems.

In a major move toward sustainable eye care in Samoa, the optical workshop has been refurbished and equipped with two spectacle technicians and ophthalmic nurses - all upskilled in refraction and trained in low vision assessment and management. Human resources are developed through training for vision screening and low vision, spectacle technicians and management processes.
Importantly, recent development an optical workshop has allowed provision of affordable and good quality spectacles.

Funders:

• AusAID Avoidable Blindness Initiative through the Vision 2020 Australia Global Consortium
• Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC).
  

Partners:

• Lead organization, RIDBC and in country partners;
• SENSE Inclusive Education and Disability Services
• National Health Service of Samoa
• Ministry of Education Sport and Culture in Samoa