Brazil health programs expand access to ophthalmological services

Various regional health initiatives in Brazil are expanding access to ophthalmological services and eye care.

In Alagoas, the ‘Olhar da Gente’ program has performed over 12,000 free cataract surgeries across 25 municipalities. Launched by the Maceió Municipal Health Secretariat, the program has significantly exceeded its monthly targets, reaching over 1,400 procedures in a single month.

In Goiás, the ‘Olhar para Todos’ program is providing free eye exams and prescription glasses to students. Since 2024, the initiative has reached over 129,000 students in 206 state schools, with many receiving necessary corrective lenses or being referred to specialized care at the Federal University of Goiás.

Additionally, the City of Itabuna has launched an ophthalmology task force in partnership with the Setes Institute. The initiative aims to reduce waiting lists by offering consultations and glasses to up to 650 patients per day at local community sites.