The government, through the Ministry of Health and Wellness has thrown its support behind a public-private partnership initiative towards making eye health care more affordable for Bahamians.
Eye care at more reasonable cost is being made possible through a partnership between the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and Imperial Optical.
An official Opening Ceremony of the groundbreaking partnership was held at the Eye Care Centre on Soldier Road on Monday, June 23, 2025. Present were the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Dr. Aubynette Rolle, Managing Director, PHA; Dr. Richard Knowles, Imperial Optical Leadership; Optometrist Dr. Kingsley Jonah, and other personnel.
Dr. Darville underscored the importance of the partnership, aimed at giving relief to patients who are not able to obtain eye care because of high expenses.
“Today marks a significant milestone in healthcare in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, especially for the thousands of Bahamians who depend on our public healthcare system to access eyewear and to get eye services,” he said.
This partnership with the Princess Margaret Hospital, the Public Hospitals Authority, and Imperial Optical is seen as what can be accomplished through such partnerships.
“Patients can now leave this facility after seeing the optometrists with eyewear and get on with their lives. It’s very important for everyone to have work, to be able to function effectively, to drive and to get on with their day-to-day activities,” said Dr. Darville.
This collaboration marks a significant advancement in accessible eye care for public patients. As part of this initiative, Imperial Optical has established an on-site dispensary within the Eye Care Centre, exclusively serving public patients who receive care at the facility.
This integrated approach ensures seamless continuity of care, allowing eligible patients to conveniently fill their eyeglass prescriptions immediately following their appointments.
Additionally, Imperial Optical has committed a volunteer optometrist to support the PHA in helping to reduce appointment backlogs and improving timely access to eye care services for public patients. Eye examination for public patients will be free. However, the cost of frames and lenses will not be, but will come at a reduced price.
The Eye Care Centre will not only deliver free eye testing to patients but also offer an on-site eyewear dispensary. The dispensary will offer over 500 frames and styles for children and adults to choose from.
PHA Managing Director Dr. Aubynette Rolle said the centre will feature volunteer optometrists and that the additional help will reduce backlogs.
“The on-site dispensary is more than a convenience,” said Dr. Rolle. “It’s a vital solution that acknowledges the reality faced by many of our patients. I call it a one-stop deal. Immediate access to prescription eyewear can dramatically impact someone’s ability to work, study, live, and all the other duties with dignity.”
Dr. Richard Knowles said he and his team at Imperial Optical are excited to partner with PHA to reduce the cost of eye care in the country.
The post Ministry of Health and Wellness supporting public-private partnership for affordable eye health care appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.
