MHCECC
Developments since July 2008
Since the inauguration of the Miriam Hyman Children's Eye Care Centre on 03 July 2008 there have been over 30,000 Outpatients appointments (25% without charge) and 3,000 surgeries (50% without charge) (July 2011).
On 3rd July, 2009 (the first anniversary of the inauguration of the MHCECC), the paediatric occular oncology facility was opened. This extension of service provision at the MHCECC centralises children's eye cancer facilities, maximising convenience and minimising distress for patients and their families, who usually travel long distances to visit the Centre. In the last quarter of 2009 twelve surgical procedures were carried out and other cases required alternative medical procedures.
In June, 2010 a RetCam was acquired for the MHCECC. One of only eight in India, this scanner is invaluable in addressing pathological conditions of the retina, not least in premature babies who are vulnerable to retina detachment (Retinopathy of Prematurity, or ROP). Approximately three hundred babies and infants a year are now examined for retinal conditions other than cancer. The RetCam is anticipated to result in a 50% increase in examinations, reducing morbidity rates, and even mortality rates, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent many conditions from becoming irreversible.
The MHMT acquired a Mobile Unit to capitalise on the portable RetCam. It is also utilised to bring screening equipment and free glasses where needed to children in remote areas or slums.
We fundraised to upgrade the MHMT Operating Room at the MHCECC, and the equipment has been installed. There is an additional anesthesia station, an ultrasound scanner, a baby warmer and a mounted microscopic camera with accompanying computer and software.
£20,000 was donated for a specular microscope that is especially useful for assessing corneas for fitness for transplant. Miriam's friend, Marc Rubinstein, secured a donation of $5000 from Goldman Sachs Gives to train technicians in the use of the Specular Microscope.
Our last donation was £16,000 to expand the paediatric Glaucoma Unit at the MHCECC.
The current target is £50,000 to support an MHCECC consultant to receive advanced training abroad for one year.
Screening children is a priority, and plans to build the infrastructure to provide an equitable service are progressing. This will eventually include training "vision guardians" - members of the community such as teachers to identify the need for referral.
We will continue to bring you news of developments.
The MHCECC waiting room