Forging a new pathway to help Kiwis to see more clearly, Eye Health Aotearoa launched in parliament late this summer.
A collective of individuals and organisations from across the eye health sector, Eye Health Aotearoa presented its recommended seven-point plan to MPs, guests and media at Parliament House on February 19.
Ophthalmologist and Eye Health Aotearoa trustee Dr Brian Kent-Smith delivered a powerful presentation, reminding the audience that 90% of vision impairment is treatable or preventable, highlighting the need for New Zealand to undertake a national eye health survey.
Fellow Eye Health Aotearoa trustee John Mulka, chief executive of Blind Low Vision NZ, said: “Vision loss can have a devastating impact on thousands of lives. Not only those experiencing vision loss, but those who love and care about them. Our research shows that people with vision loss are far less likely to be employed, three times as likely to experience clinical depression and twice as likely to fall.”
Eye Health Aotearoa recognises the health system is facing complex challenges, said Mulka, and its recommendations accommodate this environment while seeking to increase equitable access to quality eye health for all New Zealanders.
