Dr Kong shows the inside of an eyeball anatomy model. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING: The Eye Specialist Centre (ESC) will conduct free eye screenings on Malaysia Day (Sept 16) at its premises at Panovel Commercial Centre, Jalan Simpang Tiga.
Medical director Dr Dennis Kong said those aged over 60 with a family history of glaucoma or have high myopia (short-sightedness) are encouraged to register for the free eye screenings between 8am to noon.
“Cataract and glaucoma are common eye diseases that occur as a result of ageing. In fact, 50 per cent of people who are in their 60s will have cataract and therefore are encouraged to have their eyes screened,” he said yesterday.
He also advised patients with previous eye injuries or those with diabetes to be screened.
“Diabetic eye disease has become quite common these days with the rise in diabetes cases in Malaysia due to the sedentary lifestyle led by Malaysians.
“Therefore, patients with diabetes should make it a point to have yearly eye examinations as diabetes can effect the eyes as well.”
Dr Kong said the newly-opened ESC, which is fully compliant with the stringent regulations and standards of the Ministry of Health Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act, provides a very high standard of general eye and also sub-specialist eye services.
“We have a group of eye specialists based here providing various clinical eye services ranging from general cataract and comprehensive ophthalmology, retinal diseases, and paediatric ophthalmology to oculoplastic services.
“ESC is an ambulatory eye care centre where there is no overnight admission and therefore reduces cost. However, patients needing general anaesthesia and inpatient care will be managed at Timberland Medical Centre, which ESC is affiliated,” he said.
ESC is expected to be officially opened by National Malaysian Medical Association president-elect Dr John Chew on Saturday (Sept 12).
Those who register for the free eye screening will be entitled to freebies from ESC.
For registration or enquiries call ESC on 082-428233 / 082-427233, or email to [email protected].