Ghana Health Service calls for eye health integration into universal coverage

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has advocated for the integration of eye health into Ghana's universal health coverage (UHC) and national development programs. Speaking during the launch of World Sight Day 2026 in Accra, health officials and experts emphasized that eye care is a fundamental component of public health and national productivity. The event, held under the theme "Eye care for all: Integrating vision into primary health care," served as a platform to urge citizens to prioritize regular eye examinations to prevent avoidable blindness and vision impairment.

Dr. Gladys Fordjour, a Consultant Ophthalmologist, highlighted the critical need to extend eye care services beyond hospital settings and into local communities. She pointed out that uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts remain the leading causes of vision impairment in the country, many of which are treatable if identified early. Dr. Fordjour stressed that early detection through primary healthcare facilities is essential for managing these conditions effectively. She also noted the significant impact of good vision on educational outcomes, advocating for mandatory and regular vision screenings within schools to support children's learning and development.

Beyond the classroom, the call for improved eye health extends to the workplace, where employers are encouraged to promote vision wellness programs to maintain a healthy workforce. Dr. Fordjour specifically addressed the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking care, mentioning the high costs associated with spectacles and specialized medical treatments. The launch acknowledged the essential contributions of partners such as Orbis Ghana and the Ophthalmological Society of Ghana, whose collaborative community screenings have been vital in reaching underserved populations across the country.

The GHS continues to encourage the public to seek prompt medical attention at the first sign of vision changes rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. By embedding eye health within the broader primary healthcare framework, the service aims to ensure more equitable access to vision care for all Ghanaians. Officials concluded that the integration of these services is a necessary step toward achieving long-term national development goals and improving the overall quality of life for the citizenry.