Kigali hospital pins hope on new eye equipment

King Faisal Hospital-Kigali has received an ophthalmic laser machine that would boost its capacity to offer timely and efficient treatment of eye related diseases.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Mutangana examines an eye patient as Dr Richard Garfinked (L), Dr Alex Butera , and Ms Barbara Margolies look on. The New Times/J. Mbanda.

King Faisal Hospital-Kigali has received an ophthalmic laser machine that would boost its capacity to offer timely and efficient treatment of eye related diseases.The machine was donated by the International Organisation for Women and Development (IOWD), a non-profit organisation based in the United States of America and the Retinal Group of Washington, Tuesday to facilitate timely and efficient treatment of eye related diseases. "It was a serious problem for people to go abroad for eye-related treatment. People will not only save money on going abroad but also save time,” Dr Francis Mutangana, the head of the hospital’s Eye Care Department said, adding "This ophthalmic laser machine, worth more than Rwf13m, the first of its kind in Rwanda, will reduce such expenses as patients will be treated here.”It is used to treat patients suffering from a variety of retina problems but also assists in the treatment of some types of glaucoma, a group of eye diseases characterised by the damage of optic nerve.In addition, it is commonly used for treatment of diabetic patients developing retinal problems. It is a device for preventing vision loss when applied properly and timely.Barbara A.Margolies, the Executive Director of IOWD, said Rwanda is a good country to work in. "It gives us a feeling of great accomplishment to work side by side with so many wonderful people. We are so proud to be able to share with the Rwandan medical staff.”