How one ophthalmologist helped a government hospital in Telangana’s remote tribal region complete 400 cataract surgeries

In Bhadrachalam, a small town in Telangana's Bhadradri Kothagudem district, a single ophthalmologist has made a significant impact by bringing specialised eye surgery to remote tribal areas. The Ophthalmology Unit of the Area Hospital, Bhadrachalam, established its dedicated ophthalmic operation theatre in December 2023, which has since completed 400 cataract surgeries.

Patients from Bhadradri Kothagudem, Warangal, Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha have travelled to Bhadrachalam for these procedures. The unit now performs around 20 cataract surgeries a month, having increased its schedule from one to two days a week. This achievement is remarkable given the geographical challenges and limited availability of specialist manpower in the region.

The ophthalmic operation theatre, the first of its kind in the entire district, was set up with financial support from former District Collector Anudeep Durishetty, backed by subsequent District Collectors Jitesh V. Patil and Ankit, and ITDA Project Officer B. Rahul. The hospital performs modern phacoemulsification cataract surgeries, with all 400 procedures completed without major complications.

Despite operating with a single ophthalmologist on a contract basis, the unit is among the best-performing ophthalmology units under the Telangana Vaidya Vidhana Parishad. Dr. Santosh and the entire ophthalmology nursing, operation theatre, and support teams are appreciated for their sustained commitment to this vital healthcare service.