Restoring vision
The future is looking a lot brighter for people in the East Arnhem region, following a record number of cataract surgeries performed by NT Health's ophthalmology team in partnership with Vanguard Health's Indigenous and Remote Eye Health Service.
Comprising 2 ophthalmologists, a nurse, an orthoptist and an optometrist/program manager, the team has helped restore vision to 38 people during 3-day trip to Gove to improve eye health in remote and regional areas.
'We're thrilled to be part of an important service that restores people's vision and helps them to return to their families in better health,' said Shelley Wilson, unit nurse manager at Gove District Hospital.
'Every operation means we are making a difference to the eye health outcomes for people in remote and regional areas and ensuring they receive the treatment and support they need.'
Vision loss can impact a person's overall health, reducing their quality of life and ability to function. Bruce from Galiwinku shared with the team that post surgery, he was looking forward to getting back to fishing, hunting and driving.
The hospital staff at Gove play an important role in managing the logistical tasks of:
- scheduling travel
- booking accommodation
- organising the patient's pre- and post-operational assessments
- administering medication
- following up with patients once they have returned home.
