Wenlock Hospital to enhance eye care with advanced equipment from MRPL

Mangaluru: Government Wenlock Hospital, Mangalore, is poised to improve its ophthalmology services with the addition of two cutting-edge devices—Topcon 3D Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and the Topcon Slit Lamp. This significant upgrade is made possible through Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) under its CSR initiative, Arogya Samrakshan, at a cost of ₹30 lakh.

Transforming eye care for thousands

The advanced equipment is expected to benefit 4,000 to 5,000 patients annually, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Dr. Ajay Kamath, Head of the Ophthalmology Department, expressed optimism about the initiative’s impact. He noted, “These devices will significantly improve early detection and treatment outcomes for serious eye conditions. Previously, critical cases had to be referred to other hospitals, posing difficulties for economically weaker patients.”

As one of the best-managed government hospitals in the region, Wenlock Hospital caters to patients from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and neighbouring districts like Hassan, Kasaragod, and Davangere. The hospital has seen a growing number of patients in recent years, highlighting its importance as a regional healthcare hub.

Details of the equipment

• Topcon 3D OCT: This state-of-the-art imaging device uses light waves to capture high-resolution, 3D images of the eye’s internal layers. It plays a critical role in detecting conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, allowing for timely and effective interventions.
• Topcon Slit Lamp: A highly precise diagnostic tool, the slit lamp provides detailed examinations of the eye’s surface and deeper layers. It helps in diagnosing cataracts, corneal issues, dry eyes, and other conditions, ensuring comprehensive eye health evaluations.

Formal handover ceremony

The equipment was officially handed over through a Letter of Intent (LoI) presented by Shri Steevan Pinto, Officer at MRPL, to the District Medical Officer (DMO) of Wenlock Hospital.

A continued commitment to healthcare

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Krishna Hegde Miyar, GGM HR of MRPL, remarked, “MRPL’s CSR initiative, Arogya Samrakshan, reaffirms our commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and quality, especially for the most vulnerable sections of society.”

With this advanced equipment, Wenlock Hospital is set to further enhance its capabilities, ensuring that early detection and quality treatment are available to all, regardless of economic background.