Photo : A man undergoes one of the eye exams in the free screening at Asiki Clinic
SOUTH PAPUA – Tunas Sawa Erma (TSE) Group recently organized free cataract screening for its employees and neighboring communities. This initiative was held in partnership with Merauke-based Bunda Pengharapan Hospital at TSE Group’s clinics across the regencies of Boven Digoel and Merauke in South Papua Province.
Taking place June 10-14, the event helps with early detection of eye diseases, particularly cataracts, which limit and disrupt vision. Being a mobile service program, it eases access to eye exams for isolated settlements.
“This activity is a huge help for Papuans who live in remote areas. Many of them cannot access health services in bigger towns due to the distance,” said a patient, Desmon Tambayong.
At the screening, patients were served directly by Bunda Pengharapan’s refractionist Ermelinda Bene and nurse Rikarda. Those detected with cataracts were referred to Bunda Pengharapan for further treatment by ophthalmologists.
“Bunda Pengharapan’s eye clinic is equipped with the facility, tools, and manpower to offer eye tests. In this screening, we checked 306 patients, 33 of whom were diagnosed with the disease,” said Bene.
Some of the eye tests administered to local people
Putting social and environmental responsibility at the forefront, TSE Group pledges to continue innovating sustainable oil palm plantation practices. Such practices include improving the quality of community health using healthcare programs that are run in tandem with relevant stakeholders. (PR)
