Integration of eye care into primary healthcare tier in Nigeria health system: A case for Delta State

Abstract

Primary Eye Care (PEC) provides the essential cares of the eyes and visual pathways at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level in order to prevent avoidable visual impairment and blindness. The aim of this study is to review the need for integration of PEC services into PHC in Nigeria healthcare system – with focus oF Delta State. A narrative review approach was used in evaluation of community needs, government and PHC facilities. Published literatures from around the world including in Sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria was done through web search and Mendeley reference library. The evaluations show that there is ability and willingness to integrate PEC into PHC. Yet, there is observable mismatch in capacity vs. opportunity or a knowledge and attitude gap. In Delta State on Nigeria, there appears to be specialist Eye-care providers located in just 24% of the local government areas and absolutely none (zero %) at any PHC facility. In the rural communities, there is the barrier of affordances including problem of access, but the PHC staff can be equipped to provide basic services such as educational, preventive and referral services that non-governmental organisations have done. Therefore, integration of PEC into PHC at the community level is possible.