Established in 2015, the Eye Department at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital is dedicated to delivering comprehensive eye care services to individuals with diverse ocular conditions. From modest beginnings with a single ophthalmologist, the department has evolved into a fully-fledged unit offering advanced diagnostic, medical, and surgical eye care, along with impactful community outreach programs.

A stand-alone Eye Center is currently being planned to expand the department’s capacity for specialized care and training.

Core Services

1. Consultations
We provide in-depth evaluations for various eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and refractive errors.

2. Eye Surgery
We offer a range of surgical procedures such as:

• Cataract removal using small incision techniques
• Paediatric eye surgeries
• Glaucoma management surgeries
• Laser treatment for retinal diseases
• Corrective surgeries for specific vision impairments

3. Paediatric Eye Care
We manage and treat congenital and developmental eye conditions including congenital cataracts and strabismus.

4. Medical Eye Treatment
We offer tailored treatment for:

• Eye infections
• Dry eye syndrome
• Macular degeneration and other degenerative conditions

Advanced Diagnostic Services

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): For high-resolution retinal imaging
• Refraction Testing: To determine corrective lens prescriptions
• Visual Field Assessment: For peripheral vision testing (e.g., glaucoma detection)
• A/B Scans: Ultrasonography of internal eye structures
• Tonometry: For intraocular pressure measurement
• Visual Function Analysis
• Lane Park Refraction Unit with Phoropter: For accurate vision assessment and correction

Preventive Services and Community Engagement

• Eye Screening Programs: Conducted in communities to detect cataracts, refractive errors, and other vision issues early
• Health Education Campaigns: Including seminars, school visits, and public workshops on eye health and hygiene
• Awareness Outreach: Engaging communities, schools, and workplaces in promoting routine eye exams and early intervention

Staff and Expertise

• Senior Ophthalmologists (3): Providing expert diagnosis and surgery
• Medical Officers: Handling general eye cases and follow-ups
• Optometrists & Technicians: Delivering vision assessments and eyewear support
• Ophthalmic Nurses: Supporting treatment, surgery, and patient education
• Multidisciplinary Team: Collaboration with social workers, nutritionists, and other specialists for holistic patient care

Facilities and Technology

The department is equipped with:

• OCT machines
• A/B Scans
• Visual field analyzers
• Phoropter-equipped Lane Park units
• Tonometry and refraction devices

Planned Development: A dedicated Eye Care Building is set for construction to serve as a regional hub for advanced ophthalmic services.

Achievements and Milestones

• Patient Volume: Serving thousands annually with growing demand
• Service Growth: Expanded focus to include community education, early detection, and high-level diagnostics
• Infrastructure Improvements: Renovation of operating theatres, procurement of state-of-the-art equipment
• Eyeglass Workshop: Operational on-site facility for frame fitting and lens fabrication

Future Plans

• Center of Excellence for Vision Care: In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and UDOM, aiming to position BMH as a regional referral center
• Expansion of Advanced Treatment: Including more laser interventions and sub-specialist services
• Enhanced Outreach Programs: Targeting rural and underserved communities
• Capacity Building: Continuous professional development for staff to ensure adherence to international standards