| Prof. Kovin Naidoo |
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This toolkit provides the basic tools for national optometric associations to plan and implement a program of action that will lead to greater participation by optometrists in the national VISION 2020 programs. The information in the kit encompasses as much generic information as possible; therefore, it is not a substitute for local analysis and planning. It should rather aid this process and enable you to achieve the goals that are needed for your country.
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My experience has taught me that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution to blindness and visual impairment. On the contrary, solutions need to be dynamic and appropriate for the population to be served. Appropriate interventions and outcomes must be defined by the communities themselves. In this respect, it is imperative that we consult stakeholders at local and national levels to identify their needs. Furthermore, we must make every effort to include stakeholders in the decision making process of our vision care work and to ensure that communities have ownership in the projects. Such efforts will lead to sustainable solutions and expand the scope of work conducted by optometry.
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Optometrists make many efforts at the political level to demonstrate the relevance and importance of the profession to society. However, it is more beneficial to speak with actions. This toolkit is one of many resources in our armament against blindness, visual impairment and, ultimately poverty, that allows optometry to speak with actions.
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