Pailin Province Offers Free Eye Care Services in Collaboration with Samaritan's Purse

In Pailin Province, western Cambodia, the provincial administration has partnered with the international NGO Samaritan's Purse to offer free eye examinations and treatment services to residents. This initiative aligns with the key priority of 'enhancing public health and well-being' under Prime Minister Hun Manet's 'Strategic Pentagon' plan. On September 18, Ms. Dr. Ban Sreymom, Governor of Pailin Province, inspected the special facility set up at the provincial hospital, observing the provision of these free services to residents not only within the province but also from neighboring areas. The Governor highlighted that this activity significantly aids residents facing economic hardship and those unable to afford eye treatment. She stated that regaining sight for patients not only leads to better eye health but also provides them with opportunities to participate actively in society and earn a livelihood. Samaritan's Purse dispatched a team of ophthalmologists to conduct intensive medical examinations at the Pailin Provincial Hospital from September 12 to 18. During this period, a total of 819 individuals received eye check-ups, with 446 undergoing surgery. This included 377 cataract surgeries and 64 other eye surgeries. In addition to medical services, the organization also provided support for transportation, accommodation, and meals during the treatment period, striving to alleviate the patients' burdens. This collaboration is highly regarded for its contribution to improving the healthcare sector in Pailin Province. The Cambodian government has set goals including expanding universal health coverage, enhancing the quality of local healthcare services, developing medical infrastructure and technology, and preventing non-communicable and infectious diseases. The current free eye service can be considered a concrete step towards achieving these objectives. Source: CPP Cambodia