The 2023 Doyne Lecture-a cornea care system: evolution.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Corneal Diseases

Background:

• Corneal opacities are a leading cause of blindness worldwide, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).
• The prevalence and impact of corneal blindness are influenced by diverse risk factors and socio-economic determinants.
• Addressing corneal conditions in LMIC presents complex challenges in prevention, treatment, and management.

Discussion:

• The L V Prasad Eye Institute's cornea care model demonstrates a successful strategy for delivering advanced eye care from urban centers to rural populations.
• Key innovations include ensuring a consistent supply of corneal tissue, capacity building through training, and robust research translating discoveries into clinical practice.
• The model incorporates context-specific diagnostic and surgical innovations to enhance patient outcomes.

Key Insights:

• A sustainable supply of corneal tissue is a critical first step in establishing effective cornea care.
• Integrated approaches combining clinical services, training, and research are essential for tackling corneal blindness.
• Context-tailored innovations are vital for improving the efficacy and accessibility of ophthalmic interventions.

Outlook:

• The L V Prasad Eye Institute's model offers a scalable solution for reducing global eye care disparities.
• Future efforts should focus on further refining and disseminating such models to maximize impact in underserved regions.
• Continued investment in research and development is crucial for advancing ophthalmic care and restoring sight.