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.
