How a Singapore team braved poor communications and equipment to provide free eye surgery for Laotians

Under the SNEC programme, ophthalmologist Dr Keovongkoth Nouanphanthakoun from the National Ophthalmology Center in Vientiane was in Singapore at the start of 2024.

There, the 34-year-old learnt more about issues such as glaucoma and cataract treatment.

Among his key takeaways were the detailed patient care and systematic work procedures at the SNEC, smooth coordination between doctors and nurses as well as modern technology being used.

The challenge is in replicating Singapore’s system in Laos, where an improvement in overall technical knowledge of medical personnel is much needed, along with more advanced treatment techniques and equipment.

Meanwhile, through the SNEC’s project in Vientiane, many disadvantaged people who live far away from the capital have been able to get “proper and safe treatment, which makes them have a better quality of life”, said Dr Keovongkoth.

“They were very happy to be able to see clearly again.”

MORE TO COME

Dr Tan pointed out that as a developed country, Singapore faces different issues when it comes to eye problems.

“For Singapore, ageing diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes are more pressing eye conditions causing blindness,” she told CNA.

In Laos, most cases of visual impairment are caused by refractive error or cataracts, she noted.

Singapore can share expertise in the area, said Dr Tan, as it has better primary and secondary health care systems with resources to address those particular problems.

Moving forward, the SNEC is in the process of signing a memorandum of understanding with the National Ophthalmology Center in Vientiane.

It will facilitate specialised training in Laos, focusing on hospitals at district levels and equipping local trainers with knowledge and expertise.

“We plan to improve the skills of not only the medical eye health professionals, but also the support staff such as biomedical engineers and administrators,” said Dr Tan, adding that more exchange visits and training opportunities between both countries are also on the cards.