Patna: A national-level conference on eye care, the “Sight for All Conclave 2026”, was held at the Centre of Excellence campus of Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital in Mastichak on Sunday, bringing together experts to discuss improving access to vision care.
Organised by the Akhand Jyoti Institute of Community Ophthalmology, the conclave saw participation from more than 300 delegates representing over 30 eye care institutions across India.
The theme of the event — “Community Care as Market Intelligence: Enhancing Patient Acquisition in Eye Care Systems” — focused on increasing awareness of eye health, particularly in rural and underserved communities, and improving access to affordable and quality treatment.
Representatives from leading institutions including All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Aravind Eye Care System, Sankara Nethralaya, Sankara Eye Foundation India and Sitapur Eye Hospital were among those present.
On the sidelines of the conclave, an agreement was signed between Restoring Vision and Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital to support the distribution of free reading glasses to economically disadvantaged populations in Bihar. The initiative aims to address near-vision impairment among those unable to access timely care due to financial or geographical barriers.
Experts at the event emphasised that effective eye care delivery must extend beyond hospitals, highlighting the need for outreach programmes, awareness campaigns and early screening to reduce preventable blindness.
They noted that many patients in rural areas delay or avoid treatment due to lack of information, distance, or financial concerns, underscoring the importance of community engagement in strengthening healthcare access.
Organisers said the conclave aimed to bridge gaps between institutions and communities while promoting strategies to improve patient outreach and long-term eye health outcomes.
