Celebrating the Success of the Early Visual Impairment Prevention Program

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the Early Visual Impairment Prevention Program (EVIP Program) which is a two-year initiative led by the General Eye and Low Vision Centre. The program was designed to enhance early detection and treatment of common eye diseases, while promoting better visual health among both adults and children in Hong Kong.

The Program was fully funded by the Drs Richard Charles & Ester Yewpick Lee Charitable Foundation, it enabled the Centre to acquire advanced ophthalmic equipment and upgrade essential infrastructure, significantly strengthening its capacity to diagnose and treat glaucoma and cataracts. These two conditions are among the leading causes of vision problems in Hong Kong, and early identification and intervention are crucial to preserving visual health. The newly introduced dual-mode SLT/YAG laser system, upgraded visual field analyzer, and various surgical accessories have helped reduce examination time, improve treatment efficiency, and deliver better visual outcomes for patients.

A key achievement of the EVIP Program was the launch of the Childhood Vision Development Service, delivered through a dedicated consultation room designed to support early childhood eye health. Equipped with specialized diagnostic tools tailored for children aged six or below, the service provides comprehensive eye assessments that facilitate early detection and management of ocular conditions. With an estimated 4,000 children expected to benefit annually, this initiative plays a vital role in reducing the prevalence of amblyopia and other childhood vision disorders, helping young children achieve better visual outcomes from an early age.

To meet the growing demand for surgical services, the Centre has replaced the aging air-conditioning system in the operating theatre to ensure a consistently safe, hygienic, and stable surgical environment. This upgrade not only enhances the efficiency and reliability of surgical procedures, but also enables the Centre to accommodate more patients, reduce waiting times, and provide timely, affordable ophthalmic care for those in need.

The EVIP Program has played a key supporting role in enhancing outreach services by providing essential equipment to strengthen service capacity and effectiveness. These outreach activities, including screenings and educational talks, have actively engaged kindergartens and elderly centres, promoting early awareness and preventive care. While outreach services are delivered by the Centre, the program’s support has enabled broader community reach and improved service quality. Together with ongoing in-office consultations and treatments, the EVIP Program is expected to benefit up to 40,000 individuals annually. 

As the program continues to develop, it is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the wider community and reaffirm our commitment to early intervention and accessible eye health for all.