Egypt's Memorial Institute for Ophthalmic Research has reported a significant number of emergency cases and surgeries performed between January and September. According to the Ministry of Health, the institute received 12,085 emergency cases during this period. In addition, 411 surgeries were performed at the institute's surgical building, which has 45 beds and seven operating rooms. This information was revealed during a visit by Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar to inspect the institute's facilities.
Minister Abdel Ghaffar inspected the upgraded departments at the Memorial Institute for Ophthalmic Research and Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital to review renovation works, medical equipment, and the quality of healthcare services. During the visit, he emphasized the importance of scientific research in the institute's work, noting that over 43 research papers had been published. The institute is also working to train medical staff and strengthen cooperation with international institutions. Furthermore, the research centre's licence was renewed by Egypt's Supreme Council for Medical Research Ethics.
The institute is actively involved in various initiatives to improve eye care services. One such initiative is the "Small Eyes, Big Future" programme, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Solidarity. This programme aims to provide early eye screening for children in orphanages through the paediatric ophthalmology centre. Minister Abdel Ghaffar visited this centre and expressed his support for such initiatives that promote eye care among children.
Minister Abdel Ghaffar also visited Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital, where he inspected various departments, including an economic neonatal unit. This unit is equipped with 12 incubators, three operating rooms, specialised wards, and paediatric and neonatal departments. During the visit, he encouraged natural childbirth whenever medically appropriate for both the mother and baby. This visit showcased the hospital's efforts to provide quality healthcare services to patients.
At the dental department of Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital, Minister Abdel Ghaffar ordered an increase in the number of doctors and the swift launch of an electronic system to register and track patient cases. The Ministry of Health expects this system to become operational within one or two days. This move aims to improve the efficiency and quality of dental care services at the hospital.
Minister Abdel Ghaffar also reviewed ongoing construction works at Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital and instructed the contractor to accelerate implementation. He monitored progress on two floors under development, expecting completion within the next 30 days. This construction work is part of the hospital's efforts to expand its facilities and improve healthcare services.
The visit by Minister Abdel Ghaffar highlights the Egyptian government's efforts to improve healthcare services, particularly in the field of ophthalmology. The Memorial Institute for Ophthalmic Research and Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital play a crucial role in providing quality eye care services to patients. With ongoing initiatives and developments, these institutions are expected to continue improving healthcare outcomes for Egyptians.
Key points
- The Memorial Institute for Ophthalmic Research handled 12,085 emergency cases and performed 411 surgeries between January and September.
- The institute's research centre had its licence renewed by Egypt's Supreme Council for Medical Research Ethics.
- The "Small Eyes, Big Future" initiative aims to provide early eye screening for children in orphanages.
