KOTA SAMARAHAN, Sept 12 — The frequency of cataract operations nationwide has increased by almost threefold to 31,658 cases in 2011 from 12,798 in 2002, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya said today.
He said the number of cataract operations in Sarawak had also gone up, to 3,664 cases in 2012 from 2,082 in 2008.
“The government is concerned about eye care among the people in the state. As such, the Sarawak Zone 1Malaysia Cataract Clinic (KK1M), which will begin operations early this month, will provide a more comprehensive eye examination and cataract operation facility,” he said.
He said this in his speech at the opening of the Sarawak Zone KK1M and the office building of the State Health Director at the Sarawak General Hospital Heart Centre today. The text of his speech was read out by Assistant Minister of Public Health Dr Jerip Susil.
Dr Hilmi said it was hoped that the clinic, costing RM1.1 million and covering the cost of procurement of medical equipment, surgery and a modified mini bus, would also boost awareness of eye care especially in the rural areas.
“With a payment as low as RM100, cataract operations are provided by committed and experienced experts. With minimal charge for the best service, it is hoped that the Sarawak Zone KK1M can lessen the burden of the people,” he said.
The first phase of the Sarawak Zone KK1M mini bus operation zone would start at the Lundu Hospital, followed by Bau, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong and Saratok. Each stop is for two weeks where all activities including screening, pre-operative evaluation and related treatments are carried out. Surgery would only be carried out at the end of the third week and the mobile service would proceed to the next destination after completing its screening activity. — Bernama
