The document explores the success and sustainability of the Inclusive Vision Centres (IVCs) project in India. Funded by CBM UK, the project supported Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital to transition from its traditional eye camps to provide accessible and affordable eye care at the community level. The review highlights the project’s emphasis on community engagement, training local women as ophthalmic paramedics, and using tele-consultation technology to enhance service delivery. The IVC model’s success is evident in its expansion to nearly 200 centres (now supported by CBM India), demonstrating significant impact and growth in providing quality eye care services.
The document also examines the sustainability of the IVC project at various operational levels, including the vision centres themselves, the hospital, the wider community, government, and CBM India Trust. Key factors promoting sustainability include effective human resources, community engagement, stakeholder support, quality assurance, and the inclusion of value-added services. However, challenges such as limited disability data collection, limited disability inclusion awareness among staff, and a lack of inclusion of people with disabilities in the centres remain. The document concludes by noting the need for continuous improvement, particularly in disability-inclusive practices, and CBM India’s vision for a sustainable future with digitised systems and clean energy to enhance environmental stewardship and reduce costs.
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