Eye health in the Republic of Moldova: arguments for a national program

Abstract

Introduction: Eye health is a critical component of public health. Visual impairments, including low vision and blindness, represent significant challenges for both public health and society, impacting various aspects of daily life. Adopting a national eye health program is crucial as it aligns with global commitments from the World Health Assembly (WHA) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This program has the potential to be a key platform for achieving the objectives of WHA Resolution 73.4, the Global Targets for 2030 Resolution, and the "Vision for Everyone: Accelerating Action to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals" Resolution. The implementation of a national eye health program in the Republic of Moldova is essential for improving access to eye care and optimizing existing resources. The study conducted using the Eye Care Situation Analysis Tool (ECSAT) represents a significant initiative from the professional community and civil society and is an integral part of developing and promoting the National Eye Health Program in Moldova. Aim of the Study: The aim of this study is to provide evidence-based arguments for the establishment of a National Eye Health Program in the Republic of Moldova. Method: The evaluation conducted with ECSAT identified key constraints in the health system regarding eye health services. These constraints include the regulatory and normative framework, access to and quality of medical services, financial sustainability of the health system, human resources, infrastructure, and the level of transparency and data monitoring within the health system. Results: The ECSAT study results highlight the need for a coordinated national program to address existing gaps and ensure an effective and sustainable eye health system. Implementing such a program will improve service quality, optimize resource utilization, and significantly enhance the prevention and management of eye conditions in Moldova. Conclusion: The National Eye Health Program (NEHP) is designed to provide a framework for planning, delivering, managing, implementing, and evaluating quality eye health care services at all levels of the country's health delivery system. The program aims to address prevalent eye health issues such as refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma. It seeks to achieve this through a strategic vision for strengthening the eye health system, enhancing human resources and infrastructure, integrating with the broader health system, improving equity in access, and fostering partnerships. The program is intended to establish a robust governance framework with clear criteria for monitoring and evaluation.