Data from the first seven months of 2026 (January – July) highlights the results of a consistent effort, made possible by the work of two qualified Malagasy optical technicians.
The impact in numbers: over 6,370 services
Between January and July 2026, the Service recorded 6,373 total patient visits:
- 6,205 comprehensive eye exams (using an autorefractor and eye chart);
- 21 follow-up visits to verify the accuracy of prescribed lenses.
135 pairs of glasses were sold based on prescriptions from outside the center.
Following the peak in April, patient volume remained high throughout the winter months: 1,025 visits in May, 995 in June, and 754 in July.
Who are our patients?
- Female majority: 84.7% of the patients seen are women.
- Young population: 57% are under 30, and 33.9% are between 30 and 60 years old.
- High appeal: in addition to serving neighboring towns (Analavory, Ampefy, Soavinandriana, Ampary), the Center attracts 42.6% of its patients from the rest of the Itasy region and 21.1% from other regions.
.jpg)
Early diagnosis and eyewear production
- Diagnosed 108 cataract cases (49 in the first four months and 59 between May and July), identified during optician screenings and verified by our consulting physician, which we hope can be operated on during the next surgical mission.
- Distributed 4,754 corrective lenses (predominantly for hyperopia and astigmatism) and assembled 2,300 complete pairs of glasses, in addition to providing solutions for used frames or single lenses.
Since January 2026, a telemedicineservice has also been active, which uses a retinometer to send images of the patient to Italy to obtain a diagnosis from the Italian ophthalmology team at Vision +. In the first seven months, 64 remote specialist consultations were conducted for the most complex cases.
Thanks to our Malagasy technicians, to Vision + for continuing to support our optical service, and to all the supporters of Change ETS who make this journey of care and prevention possible!
