Dr Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director, Orbis (India) highlights that with sustainability being a central tenet guiding innovation and progress in every field, healthcare is no exception to the rule. When it comes to eye care, the advent of green vision centers represents a paradigm shift towards environmentally conscious practices
According to WHO, over 2.2 billion people have some kind of vision impairment, of which at least 1 billion could have been prevented or treated. Limited access to or lack of primary eye care services in remote regions significantly contributes to this staggering statistic. Traditional, grid-dependent eye care facilities often face challenges in reaching these populations. Besides, even if there is a facility, it is non-functional for most part of the day due to frequent or long-duration power outages in remote rural areas. Consequently, patients have to either wait for long hours or return without examination. With sustainability being a central tenet guiding innovation and progress in every field, healthcare is no exception to the rule. When it comes to eye care, the advent of green vision centers represents a paradigm shift towards environmentally conscious practices.
Embracing solar power: Ensuring reliability in energy
Central to the ethos of green vision centers is their reliance on solar-powered electricity. Situated in areas plagued by irregular electric supply, these centers have turned to solar energy as a sustainable and dependable alternative. Through the installation of solar panels and cutting-edge energy storage systems, these centers ensure uninterrupted service even in the face of power outages, thereby ensuring continuity in the delivery of primary eye care services to communities in need.
Efficiency in action: Optimising energy consumption
In addition to harnessing solar power, green vision centers are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Equipped with top-of-the-line electrical fixtures and appliances, these centers minimise energy consumption without compromising on quality or comfort. Every aspect of these facilities is meticulously crafted to reduce waste and promote sustainability, setting a new standard for eco-friendly healthcare infrastructure.
Going paperless: Digitising data management
Another hallmark of green vision centers is their commitment to digital data management. By digitising patient records and administrative processes, these centers minimise their reliance on paper, thereby conserving valuable resources and reducing environmental impact. This shift towards digitalisation not only enhances operational efficiency but also enhances data security and accessibility, ensuring that patient information is always readily available while minimising the environmental footprint of traditional paper-based record-keeping. This also ensures the continuum of patient care is aligned with the integrated people-centered care approach.
Driving change beyond their walls: Impact and influence
The impact of green vision centers extends far beyond their immediate surroundings. As these centers use e-bikes for outreach, they promote green outreach practices and responsible consumption, further lowering the impact on the environment. By embodying principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility, these centers serve as catalysts for change within their communities and the broader healthcare industry. Through initiatives such as patient education on eco-conscious living and collaboration with local authorities on renewable energy projects, these centers actively contribute to building a more sustainable future for all.
Conclusion
The rise of green vision centers heralds a new era of sustainable eye care, especially at the community level. By embracing solar power, optimising energy efficiency, advocating for green mobility with the use of e-bikes and digitizing data management, these centers exemplify the intersection of healthcare innovation and environmental stewardship. As they continue to expand and evolve, their influence on the field of eye care and the broader healthcare landscape will only continue to grow, paving the way toward a greener and healthier future for generations to come.