In 2010, Heeralal became a para medical ophthalmic assistant (PMOA) after the Government of Madhya Pradesh called for MPWs to undergo PMOA training. He conducted regular eye exams at CHC Niwas but was disheartened by having only two or three patients a day. He took part in school screenings and cataract camps as awareness grew.

In 2022, Heeralal saw a turning point when we launched our Integrated People-Centred Eye Care project in Singrauli. CHCs were upgraded to vision centres, equipped with slit lamps and essential ophthalmic tools. PMOAs received refresher training for comprehensive eye examinations to build eye care capacity. A series of targeted interventions rolled out.

We trained community health officers, accredited social health activists (ASHAs) and community health volunteers (CHVs). Screening camps were organized with a mobile vision van to boost awareness. With support from ASHAs and CHVs, Heeralal soon saw 12 to 15 patients daily.

Today, Heeralal feels more inspired than ever by the transformation in rural healthcare. His motivation grows with every person whose sight is restored.

Did you know? Integrating eye care into universal health care is one of the five recommendations of the World Health Organization 2019 World Report on Vision.

Learn how you can help support integrated eye health efforts here.

The post From health worker to eye care champion appeared first on Operation Eyesight.

Vishnu pursued a community health volunteer (CHV) role at Fatehagar Vision Centre, established through the Promotion of Avoidable Blindness-Free Communities in Rajasthan project. We implemented the project with Alakh Nayan Mandir, through support from Standard Chartered Bank.

Once Vishnu began working, she quickly earned respect. Encouraged by her mentors, she took a two-year diploma in optometry form Aalakh Nayan Mandir. In 2024, she became a vision technician at the Fatehnagar Vision Centre. She now sees 10 patients a day.

“I want to grow, and I will never allow anyone to stop me from doing my job. I’m happy that girls in my community have started dreaming of having careers after seeing me. This job has given me a chance to change my life, and I want to motivate as many girls as possible to dream big and fight for their happiness,” Vishnu says.

She remains deeply grateful to Alakh Nayan Mandir and Operation Eyesight for the opportunity that changed her life as she now changes the lives of others.

Did you know? There is a global shortage of eye health care professionals. The World Health Organization recommends four ophthalmologists for every million people. While India has 11 per million, many are based in urban areas, leaving rural and remote areas underserved according to the IAPB Vision Atlas on India.

Learn more about how we help strengthen eye health care resources and grow human resources here.

The post Changemaker: From community health volunteer to eye care specialist appeared first on Operation Eyesight.