India has a significant impact on global blindness, accounting for about one-fourth of cases. Thankfully, nearly 80% of this blindness is treatable. Cataracts, a major cause of vision loss, can be easily cured through a simple surgery. To make this treatment accessible to the underprivileged, free cataract surgeries are being provided, especially in Bangalore. This initiative is crucial for improving eye care accessibility, especially for economically disadvantaged individuals. Collaborations between healthcare organizations and philanthropic efforts play a key role in making this program successful. Ultimately, this initiative contributes to community well-being by restoring sight and enhancing the quality of life for those in need.

Check out hospitals dedicated to providing free cataract surgery, transforming lives, and fostering community well-being.

1. Sri Sathya Sai Super Specialty Hospital and Institute of Higher Medical Sciences

Address: No. 63, 1st Main Road, EPIP Zone, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560066

Established: 1973

Beds: 1200

Doctors: 450

Specialties: 

Specific Specialties:

• It is a charitable organisation and has been serving the citizens of India for many years. 
• It offers free cataract surgery to people in need. 
• The hospital has a total of 42 beds and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for the treatment of cataracts. 
• The department has a modern operation theatre complex with three operation theatres, an advanced laser unit and other various other state of the art equipment for delivering quality patient care.
• Carries out an average number of 12 surgeries / day
• Average number of surgeries per month are 300
• Offers surgeries for congenital cataracts, senile cataract, traumatic cataract, complicated cataract, paediatric cataract. 

2. Global Eye Foundation

Address: AIR Extension Old Madras Road, NH4, Hoskote, Karnataka 562114

Established: 1995

 Specialties: 

• The Global Eye Foundation in Bangalore is a non-profit organisation that aims to provide comprehensive eye care to underprivileged
• 70% of the eye care facilities are offered free of cost
• They offer a range of services, including diagnostic and treatment for various eye conditions such as refractive errors, cataracts, and glaucoma. 
• The foundation also provides primary eye care to children in schools and slum areas where access to medical facilities is limited. 
• The foundation also provides training and education to other healthcare providers in the field of ophthalmology.
• It offers General Ophthalmology services,Cataract services, Cornea and refractive services, Retina and Uvea services, Glaucoma services, Oculoplasty, Contact lens and opticals
• They specialise in providing cataract surgery to those in need
• The foundation's services are offered to people who cannot afford or access cataract surgery through other means. 
• They have a team of experienced surgeons, nurses, and support staff committed to providing high-quality care to their patients. 

3. Shekar Eye Hospital

Address: 633, Outer Ring Rd, Dollar Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078

Established: 1999

Specialities:

• Known for comprehensive vision services and patient-centric care. 
• The hospital specialises in a range of eye care services with a focus on modern treatment methodologies.
• It offers services like Cataract Treatment: Offering advanced cataract surgery and care
• LASIK & Refractive Surgery: For vision correction and reduced dependence on glasses.
• Diabetic Eye Care: Managing eye health in diabetic patients.
• Treatment offered for squint and glaucoma and Paediatric Ophthalmology
•  The Association of Healthcare Providers, India recognized Shekar Eye Hospital as "Excellence in Healthcare"
• Conducts free eye camps in rural areas
• For cataract patients, they provide comprehensive diagnostic, surgical, and post-operative care using state-of-the-art technology and methods.
• It has established Holy Mothers Trust, a non-profit organisation. 
• Under this, eye screening camps are periodically held in and around Bangalore.
• Free eye exams and procedures such as cataract surgery are offered to residents of these settlements.
• It covers several villages under this program 

4. Nethradhama Super-Specialty Eye Hospital 

Address: # 256/14, Kanakapura Main Road, 7th Block, Jayanagar, Bangalore-560 082

Specialties:

• Recognized as one of the top eye hospitals in Bangalore.
• Offers comprehensive eye care services including diagnostics and treatment.
• Renowned for advanced ophthalmic procedures and technologies
• Specialises in Cataract eye surgery, glaucoma services, and cornea services.
• Provides personalised eye care and treatment plans for various eye conditions.
• It specialises in eye care treatments, including cataract surgery. 
• The hospital offers free cataract surgery for economically disadvantaged patients under its Cataract Blindness Prevention Program. 
• The program aims to provide quality eye care to those who cannot afford to pay for it themselves.

FAQs

Who is eligible for free cataract surgery?

Generally, eligibility criteria are based on income, age, and medical need. Programs may prioritise individuals with lower incomes or those who cannot afford the surgery.

How can I apply for free cataract surgery?

Information on the application process, required documents, and contact details for application submission.

Is post-operative care included in the program?

You need to find details about whether the program covers post-operative care, follow-up appointments, and any additional support services from the hospital individually.

Are there any hidden costs or fees involved?

Get clarification on whether there are any hidden charges or additional costs associated with the free cataract surgery program.

How can I contact the program organisers for more information?

Provide contact details, such as phone numbers or email addresses, for individuals to reach out for further information.