Women of Villa Montes become aware of their right to eye health

The power of information is evident, especially in parts of the world where the most vulnerable populations still face communication challenges. This is why visits to rural municipalities in Bolivia to provide information and raise awareness of their health rights are so important.

True to its commitment to sustainable health in Tarija, Eyes of the World signed an agreement in December with the Diverse Rural Women’s Organisation of Ibopeiti and the Real Hope Association, in the municipality of Villa Montes. This alliance enabled 14 women to be trained as eye health promoters who, thanks to this theoretical and practical training and the provision of educational materials, will be able to raise awareness about healthy habits and the early detection of eye problems, generating a very positive impact in their communities.

Marcela Huanca, one of the participants in the Ullys del Món training, stated that ‘having this tool makes us feel confident; we are now active agents who bring visual prevention from house to house’.

This action shows that real change begins with information. Until then, many women in these municipalities did not know they could access eye care covered by the Universal Health Insurance (SUS). This is the case of Norma Tejerino, who makes bread and baked goods in Villa Montes. She had been having difficulty reading prescriptions and labels for a year, suffering from eye strain and blurred vision, but she had no means of accessing an appointment and was unaware of the SUS coverage. When she found out she could benefit from eye care in her municipality, she went to have her eyes tested and was given a pair of glasses.

For citizens to know their rights and go to their local health centre to receive ophthalmological care is the first step towards improving their health and their lives.