More than 225 persons living with disability (PLWDs) in Malasang, North Bougainville, received eye screening test through the Callan Connect earlier this year.
As part of Callan Connects effort to build capacity around service delivery within the disability sector.
The screenings focused on individuals with visual impairments, utilising the U-SEE device – a tool used to determine the correct prescription for eyewear.
Across three site visits160 female & 65 male were tested and 192 corrective glasses were issued to 137 female & 55 male.
Callan Connect was established to support the Callan Services Network for persons living with disability (CSNU), the largest disability service provider in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The inclusion of PLWD is a priority across all projects funded by the Australian and New Zealand Governments, to ensure widespread access to services and increased opportunities for PLWDs to earn an income and contribute to the economy.
The initiative provides disability screening, diagnosis, and referrals, along with interventions for quality ear, eye, physical, and other specialist care. Callan Connect will also arrange venues for surgeries, coordinate travel, accommodation, and meals, and manage local transport and technical assistance for visiting specialists.
Apart from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB), Callan Connect also operates in Western Province and across the Kokoda Track catchment areas.
Callan Connect is an initiative funded through the Australia Papua New Guinea Subnational Program (APSP) to coordinate with development partners, the government, and church agencies to address gaps in the health sector, with its outreach programs primarily focused on persons living with disabilities.
