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

In Telangana’s Bhadradri Kothagudem district, a single ophthalmologist has helped a government hospital in the remote tribal region complete 400 cataract surgeries since December 2023. The Ophthalmology Unit at Area Hospital, Bhadrachalam, established the first-ever ophthalmic operation theatre in the district with financial support from former District Collector Anudeep Durishetty and subsequent District Collectors.

This facility has enabled patients from Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Warangal, Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha to receive specialised eye surgery without travelling to major urban centres. The unit currently performs around 20 cataract surgeries a month, increasing its surgical schedule from one to two days a week.

Despite limited availability of specialist manpower, the hospital has managed to sustain this service through dedicated infrastructure, essential surgical consumables, and specialist medical and support staff. The unit's achievements are significant given the geographical challenges and the single ophthalmologist appointed on a contract basis.

Dr. Santosh, the ophthalmologist, along with the entire ophthalmology nursing, operation theatre, and support teams, have been commended for their sustained commitment.