Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital: Restoring Sight and Hope

Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital (LSEH) has been a beacon of hope in the management of eye disease in Kenya since its establishment in 1997. Conceived by Lions Clubs International, the hospital emerged from a series of mobile eye camps to address preventable blindness in Kenya. Today, the institution stands as a hub for comprehensive ophthalmological care, pioneering treatments, and holistic health services.

In an interview with Healthcare Middle East & Africa magazine, Dr. Rizwana Peerbhoy, the General Manager of LSEH, gives insight into the hospital’s journey since its inception, its services, milestones, and challenges.

A VISION TO SERVE

The genesis of LSEH was rooted in the need for continuity in patient care. Mobile camps, while impactful, lacked follow-up mechanisms for complex conditions such as glaucoma and retinal diseases. “These medical camps served their purpose but left a significant gap in ongoing treatment,” she explains. “We saw many patients who required regular monitoring and care that could not be offered through a transient setup. That realization led to the establishment of a permanent facility. Thus, the LSEH, a super specialty in eye care”

Dr. Peerbhoy reflects on the hospital’s mission: “We wanted to create a temple of healthcare service where people could receive immediate treatment and follow-up care, ensuring long-term health outcomes. It is about more than just addressing immediate need; it is about fostering sustained well-being.” This vision has become the cornerstone of LSEH’s operations, enabling it to transform lives of many people across the region.

EXPANDING SERVICES FOR COMPREHENSIVE CARE

Initially focused on cataract surgeries, LSEH has evolved into a multidisciplinary facility. “Our aim has always been to meet the diverse needs of our patients,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. To address this, the hospital introduced retina specialists to treat conditions such as retinopathy of prematurity. “Premature babies often face retinal issues that, if untreated, could severely impair their vision for life,” she explains.

In 2009, the hospital further expanded its services by developing the region’s (East and Central Africa) only cornea bank. “The cornea bank is a game-changer,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. “We can harvest corneas within a six-to-eight-hour window after donor consent and preserve them for up to two weeks. This gives us a critical window to restore sight to those in need.”  However, the demand remains high, with over 3,000 patients awaiting transplants.

“The waiting list is a sobering reminder of how much work still needs to be done,” she adds. “We continuously strive to encourage more donor participation to bridge this gap and give the gift of sight to as many people as possible.”

Beyond ophthalmology, the hospital’s services extend to diabetes management, Ear Nose and Throat infections (ENT), dental care, and wound treatment. “We later realized that many of our patients with eye problems also had undiagnosed diabetes,” shares Dr. Peerbhoy. “This discovery prompted us to create a diabetes unit, Diabetes Care Center (DCC) that manages the condition and addresses its complications, especially those affecting vision.”

Our DCC unit has since evolved into a multidisciplinary center. “Our team does not just treat diabetes but educates patients about lifestyle changes,” she explains. Simple interventions, such as advising patients on a balanced diet or incorporating more physical exercise into their routines, have made a world of difference.”

Additionally, the unit’s efforts to prevent diabetes-related complications such as foot ulcers have been transformative. “In the past year alone, we have saved dozens of patients from undergoing amputations,” Dr. Peerbhoy notes proudly. By addressing wounds early and providing the necessary care, we preserve not just limbs but lives.”

THE EYE UNIT: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO EYE CARE

Dr. Solomon Asacha, a senior cataract surgeon at the hospital for two decades, explains the hospital’s all-inclusive approach. “We perform comprehensive eye examinations to diagnose a variety of conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy,” he shares. “Our goal is to provide curative care and preventive and rehabilitative services.”

Cataracts, a leading cause of reversible blindness, form a significant portion of the hospital’s caseload. “Cataracts often result from ageing, but we also see cases linked to diabetes, inflammation, or trauma,” says Dr Asacha. “Through advanced surgical techniques, we restore sight and transform lives. It is incredibly fulfilling to see patients regain their independence and confidence.”

Glaucoma, on the other hand, presents a greater challenge due to its irreversible nature. “We focus on early detection and management,” Dr. Asacha explains. “This includes family screenings to identify genetic predispositions and advanced treatments to prevent optic nerve damage.”

Kenya’s tropical climate contributes to a high prevalence of allergies and other eye-related conditions. “Environmental factors play a big role,” notes Dr. Asacha. “We see many cases of allergic conjunctivitis and infections caused by microorganisms.”

Another concern is the widespread use of digital devices, which has increased computer vision syndrome. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, screen time skyrocketed,” he explains. “We now advise patients on proper screen usage, provide lubricating eye drops, and recommend blue-light filtering glasses to mitigate the effects.”

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES

Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital prides itself on being a one-stop center for eye care. “We have state-of-the-art equipment for diagnostics and treatment,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. “From laser technology to specialized imaging, we ensure our patients receive the best care without needing to leave the country.”

The hospital also runs outreach programs to screen schoolchildren and rural communities. “In schools, we have identified many cases of refractive errors and provided corrective lenses,” says Dr. Rizwana. Children with undiagnosed vision problems often struggle in class, and it is immensely rewarding to see their academic performance and confidence improve after receiving the right support.”

Additionally, the hospital’s rural outreach programs have been instrumental in detecting severe eye conditions in adults. “We have encountered cases of advanced cataracts and glaucoma during these visits,” she adds. By bringing services directly to these communities, we help restore human sight and raise awareness about the importance of regular eye checkups. The hospital’s emphasis on rehabilitation ensures that even patients with irreversible conditions can lead fulfilling lives. “We counsel and teach patients to use assistive devices like white canes,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. “This holistic approach restores not just sight but dignity and independence.”

COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY AND OUTREACH

Accessibility is central to the hospital’s mission. Recognizing rural populations’ challenges, Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital conducts monthly follow-up visits to patients treated at its mobile camps and operates satellite clinics. The hospital’s satellite clinics are Village Market, M. P Shah Hospital, Dheg Towers at Eastleigh, and M. P. Shah Social League clinic along Temple Road in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

The facility at Kisumu is LSEH’s major upcoming center. “We have expanded to cater to underserved populations in the Western Kenya region and neighboring countries,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. “This will allow us to reach more people who would otherwise struggle to access care.” Additionally, the hospital collaborates with partners such as Johnson & Johnson to conduct school screening programs, identifying and addressing vision problems in children early.

INVESTING IN TRAINING AND RESEARCH

LSEH has launched several initiatives to train and retain talent to address Kenya’s critical shortage of specialized ophthalmologists. “Training is the backbone of sustainable healthcare,” emphasizes Dr. Rizwana. The hospital actively recruits international experts who provide care and mentor local clinicians. “We aim to create a generation of highly skilled professionals who can address the unique challenges of eye care in Africa,” she adds.

Recently certified as a research institute, the hospital is pushing the boundaries of innovation. “We are exploring treatments specifically tailored to African populations,” notes Dr. Peerbhoy. This includes research on environmental factors and lifestyle conditions disproportionately affecting the region.

Internal growth is also a focus. One inspiring example is a driver who transitioned to become a certified cornea harvester. “We believe in nurturing talent at all levels,” she says. “Everyone has the potential to make meaningful contributions, and we’re here to support that journey.”

The hospital’s training programs extend beyond medical professionals. “ We do engage community health workers and local leaders to amplify our impact,” explains Dr. Peerbhoy. The hospital ensures that early detection and intervention become a grassroots effort by equipping communities with knowledge. “Our vision is not just to treat patients but to empower communities to take charge of their eye health,” she adds.

CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE

While the hospital’s impact is undeniable, it faces challenges such as delayed insurance payments and high equipment costs. As a welfare organization, Lions Eye Hospital relies on a Robin Hood model: patients who can afford care subsidize services for those who cannot. “This approach ensures no one is turned away,”Dr. Peerbhoy emphasizes.

Late diagnosis is another issue. “Many patients seek help only when it is too late,” laments Dr Asacha. “We are working to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye checkups, especially for high-risk groups like diabetics.”

Government regulations, though stringent, are seen as constructive. “The policies are designed to protect patients and promote quality care,” says Dr. Peerbhoy. The hospital’s collaboration with county governments further enhances its outreach, with local facilities often providing space and security for mobile camps.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALTHCARE

LSEH’s holistic care philosophy sets it apart. By integrating services like nutrition counseling, diabetes management, and rehabilitation, the hospital treats patients comprehensively, addressing underlying causes and improving overall wellbeing. This approach resonates with its partners, including global organizations such as Bayer and Novartis.

LOOKING AHEAD

While expanding training programs, plans are underway to introduce oncology and kidney services at our upcoming to further intensify our services. “LSEH’s goal is to be the best in Africa, providing not just treatment but also education and research,” Dr. Peerbhoy states.

LSEH’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion, innovation, and community collaboration. By restoring sight and offering holistic care, it not only transforms individual lives but also uplifts families and communities. For Dr. Peerbhoy, the mission is clear: “We aim to give people the gift of sight and a dignified life.”

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