Strategic Planning for Human Resource and Service Delivery for Eye Care Services Meeting the Challenge Providing Equitable Eye Care in Pakistan

Abstract

At the time of independence, eye care services were provided by a few Christian missionary hospitals, Government hospitals and a few family owned Cottage hospitals. In 1950s and 60s, new eye departments were established in Karachi, Multan & Peshawar and also at Armed Forces’ hospitals. In spite of this, no organized eye care services were available to 80% of the population. Prof Hugh Taylor, a WHO Consultant, conducted a survey in 1980 only to find out that there was a gross human resource mismatch in Pakistan. Another survey and situational analysis carried out in 1998 showed a lack of trained manpower at all levels with poorly organized services and infrastructure at district level and a total lack of eye care services at THQ hospitals, Rural Health Centres and Basic Health Units. There was no referral pathway from primary level onwards.