A partnership involving the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, Medical Ministry International (MMI), the Ministry of Health and the Dominica China Friendship Hospital is helping to strengthen cataract care services in Dominica through a combination of free surgeries and specialized training for local healthcare professionals.
The two-week medical mission has already restored sight to more than 60 patients suffering from cataracts, with the total expected to reach approximately 80 procedures by the conclusion of the programme. Beyond delivering surgical care, the initiative has placed significant emphasis on developing local expertise to ensure that high-quality cataract treatment continues long after the visiting medical team departs.
This marks the second consecutive year that Medical Ministry International has partnered with the Rotary Club of Portsmouth and local health authorities to improve access to eye care services on the island. Organizers say the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving patient outcomes while building a more resilient public health system.
As part of the programme, three Dominican surgeons received hands-on training and mentorship from ophthalmologist Dr. Ralph Crew and the MMI surgical team, allowing them to refine their cataract surgery techniques through direct clinical experience. Local nurses also participated in specialized training designed to strengthen their ability to support ophthalmic surgical procedures and postoperative care.
Barbara Skinner, team leader for Medical Ministry International, said one of the mission’s greatest strengths has been its focus on training alongside service delivery.
She noted that working closely with the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital and the Ministry of Health has created valuable opportunities to transfer knowledge and strengthen local capacity. According to Skinner, this emphasis on education has become one of the defining features of the partnership.
Kalisha Aron, Public Image Chair of the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, praised the collective effort that made the initiative possible and expressed appreciation to the many volunteers, healthcare professionals and partner organizations involved in the mission.
She said the programme demonstrates what can be achieved when international organizations, local institutions and community partners work together to improve healthcare services for Dominican citizens.
Officials say the remaining cataract operations will be completed by Dominica’s own ophthalmology team, providing an immediate opportunity for the newly trained professionals to apply the skills acquired during the mission.
The partners believe the initiative will leave a lasting impact by increasing local capacity, reducing dependence on overseas medical missions and expanding access to quality eye care for patients across Dominica.
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