Sightsavers India and Roche Launch Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic in Bhopal

Sightsavers India and Roche Launch Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic in Bhopal

Bhopal, Feb 17th: Sightsavers India, in partnership with Roche, has launched a dedicated Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) Clinic in Bhopal under the Amrita Drishti – Urban Eye Health Programme. This initiative aims to enhance early detection and management of retinal conditions among underserved urban populations in Madhya Pradesh, with a special focus on women, children and the elderly within marginalised communities.

Diabetic retinopathy remains a significant cause of avoidable blindness. As diabetes prevalence increases, many patients remain unaware of retinal damage until vision loss becomes severe. Early screening and timely referral are essential to reducing long-term complications.

The initiative establishes a dedicated DR clinic at Jai Prakash District Hospital, Bhopal, supported by the installation of a fundus camera to enable early and accurate retinal screening. Patients diagnosed with diabetes are referred for screening at this facility, and those requiring further diagnosis or treatment are directed to Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, ensuring a streamlined pathway from primary screening to tertiary care.

In addition, Sightsavers India will strengthen referral systems, provide technical support, conduct outreach and awareness activities, and collaborate closely with government stakeholders to ensure sustainability within the urban health system.

The launch event was attended by Dr. Anshul Upadhyay – SPO, NPCBVI Madhya Pradesh; Dr. Vivek Som – Vitreoretinal Surgeon, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal; Dr. Manish Khichi, Lead – Market Access, Roche Products; Ms. Tasha Mahanta, State Programme Lead – Bhopal, Sightsavers India; and Mr. Mayur Verma, Deputy Manager – DSTG, Sightsavers India, among others.

Dr Monika Puri, Chief Commercial Officer at Roche, said: “Diabetic retinopathy is a silent threat that can steal vision even before symptoms appear. Through Amrita Drishti – a dedicated retina clinic at JP Hospital, Bhopal, we aim to ensure timely screening, early diagnosis, and access to treatment for every person living with retinal diseases. Protecting sight is not a luxury, it is essential to living with dignity and independence.”

RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, added: “This initiative under our Amrita Drishti – Urban Eye Health Programme is designed to strengthen and complement the government’s efforts to address non-communicable diseases and prevent avoidable blindness. We are working closely with public health institutions to enhance screening systems, build clinical capacity, and establish clear referral pathways for timely treatment. We sincerely thank Roche for partnering with us to advance equitable and accessible retinal care for underserved communities.”

Through this collaboration, Sightsavers India and Roche reaffirm their shared commitment to reducing preventable blindness and expanding access to quality retinal care for vulnerable populations.