Entrance University Hospital, a member of the Tobinco Group of Companies, has significantly broadened its healthcare offerings with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art eye care unit. This new facility aims to provide comprehensive vision services to the public, reinforcing the hospital’s ongoing commitment to accessible and quality healthcare in Ghana. The launch was accompanied by a large-scale community outreach program, offering free eye screenings to over 300 people. This initiative reflects the hospital’s dedication to preventative care and early detection of eye conditions, often overlooked until symptoms manifest. The event further underscored the importance of community engagement and corporate social responsibility in addressing public health needs.
The free screening day was complemented by substantial discounts on various services, including prescription eyewear, laboratory tests, and diagnostic scans. This pricing strategy aims to reduce financial barriers to healthcare, making essential eye care services more affordable for a wider population. By combining free screenings with discounted services, Entrance University Hospital demonstrates a multi-pronged approach to improving eye health accessibility within its community. This initiative exemplifies the Tobinco Group’s broader philanthropic mission, championed by its founder, Elder Samuel Amo Tobin, who emphasizes a commitment to giving back to society and safeguarding the sight of individuals.
The overwhelming response to the free screening event, exceeding initial expectations by over three times, highlights the significant unmet need for accessible eye care services. Dr. Alphaeus Asamoah Amoasi, the optometrist leading the screening, noted the prevalence of undiagnosed eye conditions among the participants. Commonly identified issues included refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, as well as more serious conditions like cataracts and eye infections. This high prevalence of undiagnosed conditions underscores the critical importance of regular eye examinations, particularly for those over 40. The screening event also served as a platform for educating the public about eye hygiene and preventative measures to avoid infections, further emphasizing the hospital’s commitment to holistic patient care.
Beyond diagnosis and treatment, the medical team emphasized education as a key component of the screening initiative. Participants received guidance on proper eye care practices, including hygiene protocols and preventative measures against infections, empowering them to take an active role in maintaining their eye health. This educational approach aims to foster long-term positive impact, shifting the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. Furthermore, Dr. Amoasi stressed the importance of protecting eyes from Ghana’s strong UV radiation, particularly for individuals who spend considerable time in front of digital screens. He advocated for the use of sunglasses and protective lenses, along with regular screen breaks and blinking exercises to maintain eye moisture.
The free screening revealed several alarming cases, highlighting the potential consequences of neglecting regular eye checkups. One particularly poignant case involved a 43-year-old man diagnosed with advanced glaucoma, resulting in significant and irreversible vision loss. This case served as a stark reminder of the potential for undetected eye conditions to severely impact individuals’ lives, their ability to work and provide for their families, and their overall quality of life. Such cases reinforce the urgency for accessible and affordable eye care services, as well as proactive engagement with preventative measures. The early detection and management of conditions like glaucoma can prevent irreversible damage and preserve vision.
The new eye care unit at Entrance University Hospital represents a significant expansion of the hospital’s already comprehensive range of services, which includes maternity care, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, laboratory and pharmacy facilities, ECG, ambulance services, and both in-patient and out-patient care. The inclusion of a dedicated eye clinic further strengthens the hospital’s position as a provider of holistic healthcare services, catering to a wider spectrum of community needs. This comprehensive approach to healthcare underscores the hospital’s dedication to serving as a one-stop solution for individuals seeking quality and affordable medical services. The commitment to patient-centered care, exemplified by the hospital’s compassionate staff and emphasis on exceeding patient expectations, further solidifies its reputation as a trusted healthcare provider.
