100 patients receive eye surgery in Sigatoka

Long-running international outreach, Benevolent Mission International (BMI), conducted free eye care along in the Nadroga–Navosa Province, with 100 surgeries completed in their recent visit.

Around 150 patients were screened during at the Sigatoka Hospital. BMI is a non-profit organisation that delivers ophthalmic care worldwide and has maintained a presence in Fiji for nearly three decades, providing essential eye care services in the province.

Team leader Dr Joseph Schmitz said the mission included eight visiting specialists - three ophthalmologists, two surgical technicians, a nurse anaesthetist, two assistants and an administrator.

Divisional Superintendent Dr Elizabeth Dass said local hospital staff played a critical role in patient mobilisation, pre- and post-operative care, and clinical support throughout the visit.

She said the programme allowed local staff to benefit from skills exchange with visiting specialists.

BMI operates a biannual service model. One team typically visits in October or November to conduct screenings and routine procedures, while a second team returns in February or March to carry out more complex surgeries identified earlier.

Over the years, BMI has donated essential equipment to Sigatoka Hospital, including an operating microscope, lensometer and keratometer. A YAG laser machine is expected to be added to the eye unit this year.

Resort help

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort continues to support the programme by providing accommodation and meals for the visiting team.

Since 1995, BMI has provided free eye screenings and surgeries to communities around Sigatoka in partnership with local health teams.

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