Helpline for Accessible Eye Care
New Delhi: A team of leading ophthalmologists in Delhi has launched a national eye helpline to connect patients with doctors across the country. Available Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, the initiative promises free telephonic and video consultations for anyone experiencing eye problems.
Initiative by Sight Sarthi India Foundation
Spearheaded by the Sight Sarthi India Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation, the helpline is led by Dr Ikeda Lal, cornea, cataract, and refractive surgeon and medical director at Delhi Eye Centre. The project aims to make quality ophthalmic care accessible to millions, especially in remote towns and villages.
Bridging Barriers of Geography and Cost
Dr Lal explained that many patients delay or avoid treatment due to travel difficulties or high costs. “The helpline bridges this gap by offering free consultations, second opinions, and easily accessible care for people in rural and remote areas,” she said. Patients from anywhere—from Uttarakhand’s hills to Bihar or Rajasthan—can now consult Delhi’s top eye specialists from their homes.
Comprehensive Eye Care Services
The helpline covers a wide range of eye issues, including cataracts, refractive errors, eye injuries, LASIK, and corneal transplants. Patients and their families can seek advice, share reports via video consultations, and gain clarity on treatment decisions—all at no cost.
Focus on Rural India
Dr Lal emphasized the helpline’s impact on rural communities. “For many in rural India, travelling hundreds of kilometers for an eye check-up is not feasible. This helpline brings Delhi’s specialists to their doorstep virtually, helping prevent vision loss and promoting early treatment,” she said.
Encouraging Early Consultation
Dr Harbansh Lal, a senior ophthalmologist with over three decades of experience, added, “The helpline will encourage patients to seek care at an early stage. Early treatment ensures better recovery and prevents complications.”
Helpline Details
The National Eye Helpline can be reached at 9990-666-872, Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, providing a free, convenient, and reliable link to expert ophthalmic care across India.
