LIAZ Vice-Chairperson challenges female young ophthalmic staff to be focused

“Set goals in your career, work towards them, remain focused and embrace challenges as an avenue towards growth.” said LIAZ Board Vice-Chairperson Dr. Grace Chipalo-Mutati, as she encouraged young ophthalmic staff, particularly women. Dr Chipalo-Mutati, who is a renowned ophthalmologist, said this in response to the assertion by Ms Martha Nanyangwe, an Ophthalmic Nurse of Mansa General Hospital (MGH) that she gets her inspiration from her. This was after staff at the Mansa General Hospital (MGH) eye department celebrated Martha for doing exceptionally well in eye care service delivery, especially relating to patient education, a move that enhances the uptake of eye care services among patients. Celebrating women for their contribution in various fields has over the years become a crucial component aimed at motivating them as well as displaying and emphasizing the significant role they play, thereby making the world appreciate the women’s contribution. Head of the eye department at MGH Dr. Chisanga Chelu said Martha’s exemplary performance has mostly been propelled by the support that the eye department has been receiving from LIAZ since 2020, thanks to Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). He pointed out that the provision of appropriate equipment, consumables, human resource capacity building and infrastructure enhancement has created a conducive environment for growth among staff. And Martha, one of the three female Ophthalmic Nurses in Luapula Province said her passion for eye care service delivery is inspired by Dr Grace Chipalo-Mutati whose work has been recognize locally and abroad. “I have not personally met Dr Grace Chipalo-Mutati, but I have read and heard so much about her achievements and so I aspire to follow her footsteps in the world of ophthalmology” Martha said.

Key among Martha’s significant contributions include conducting minor eye surgeries and patient education. “Apart from the usual tasks, I always take pleasure in talking to most of the patients, giving them information such as the importance of regular eye exams, proper eye care, and the prevention of eye diseases among others.” Martha explained. Other roles that Martha was celebrated for include assisting in eye examinations, taking patient histories, measuring visual acuity and administering eye drops. She also ensures the ophthalmologist has all the necessary information to make an accurate diagnosis. Additionally, Martha assists in preparation of all instruments required for surgery in the theatre. Eye health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being and the role of women ophthalmic staff in promoting eye health cannot be overstated as their contribution to the field is invaluable. As the demand for eye care services continues to grow, the role of women ophthalmic staff will become even more critical in promoting eye health as they play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.“ The prevalence of blindness in Zambia is estimated to be 1.1% in the general population and 2% in those aged 50 years and above, which implies that there are 339,081 people who are blind within a population of 19.4 million. [ MoH 2022-2026 National Eye Health Strategic Plan]