In a recent six-day outreach from September 8th to 13th, 2025, the Eye Cataract Team from Mt. Hagen Provincial Hospital successfully restored sight to 58 individuals at Tinsley Baptist Rural Hospital in Baiyer.
This achievement is a result of the dedicated efforts of the Cataract Team led by Dr. Waimbe Wahamu, who is the Highlands Regional Ophthalmologist, and supported by a committed team including Dr Savingu, Eye Ward Manager Sr. Heather Nii, Mr Sam Rungwa, Sr. Judith Dupi, Mr Palange, and Mr Hanson.
They initially screened 120 patients; of these, 50 underwent cataract surgery and 8 receivedother eye procedures. The majority of the patients were between the ages of 50 and 70, reflecting the impact of age-related degenerative conditions.
Notably, among the patients was a 28-year-old woman who successfully regained full vision after surgery for a traumatic cataract, showcasing the team’s skill and the collaborative spirit of the mission.
“This mission was more than just a medical outreach; it was a gift of sight and hope,” said Dr. Wahamu. “Despite challenges with power supply and staff accommodation, our team worked tirelessly to ensure every patient received quality care.”
Each cataract surgery took approximately 10 minutes.
This initiative was part of the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority’s (WHPHA) Jubilee Celebration, highlighting moments of service and dedication to rural communities. It demonstrated the significant impact of rural health interventions and the effectiveness of teamwork.
Some patients with complex conditions, including pterygium (external eye growths), blepharoconjunctivitis (eyelid infections), and blocked tear ducts, were treated and scheduled for future follow-ups.
Additionally, a 70-year-old woman named Marianne Kerae, who had one artificial eye and one natural eye, faced challenges as her natural eye began to fail. She struggled to recognize faces or objects from a distance and often relied on her grandchildren for assistance in daily life. When the surgical team arrived, she seized the opportunity to reclaim her independence and now possesses two artificial eyes, allowing her to see clearly without needing help.
Dr Wahamu noted that limited awareness may have prevented more patients from attending, but praised the strong teamwork and unwavering support from WHPHA’s acting CEO, Jane Holden, senior management and their leadership for their unwavering support towards the outreach program.
