The Rotary Club, St. Vincent

Dear readers,

Two weeks ago I wrote about an organization that provides free eye care for millions of people all over the world, SEE International. This week we are going to look at another organization that provides free eye care and other medical and dental services within the community.{{more}}

Over 10 years ago, the Rotary club of St Vincent launched what we now know as the Rotary village doctor programme. In this programme medical doctors from the Rotary club of St. Vincent and the community choose an underserved area and provide free medical care and distribute medication to the needy. The project has been very well received by the community at large.

Over the years, various directors have headed the programme. The current programme is currently under the leadership of President elect Rotarian Dr. Francois Truchot (Dentist) and has grown considerably.

President elect Rotarian Dr Francois Truchot & team.

Doctors who have been involved in the past, include Dr. Peter Kagbala (Surgery), Dr St. Clair Thomas (ENT), Dr Collin Boyle (Veterinarian), Dr Thomas (Chiropractor), Dr Duncan, Dr Bettie Jn baptiste (Dentist), Dr Rosmond Adams (Gen. Practitioner), Dr Sheridan (Family practitioner) Dr. Francesca Burnham-Onu (Family Practitioner), Dr Rosemary Boyle (pediatrician), Dr Jennifer George, Dr Indria Hadley (optometrist) , Dr Stephens, Dr Toney, myself and many more. The list is not exhaustive, but it goes to show that doctors and their assistants within the community are helping ease the burden of indigent persons.

Rotarian Lisa Casino has functioned as the pharmacist for the delivery of medication for several years.

The last Rotary Village Doctor project was held on Sunday 7th February at Richland Park and there were at least ten doctors present including the President of the Club, Rtn. Kirk DaSilva and many other Rotarians and Volunteers.

Services provided include consultations, examinations, minor surgeries, distribution of medication , eyeglasses and referrals of more complicated cases to secondary institutions. Some of the doctors help to assure that there is some form of continued care for the patients seen.

After the services are provided, Rotarians usually hang around for fellowship with the locals of each community visited.

Many Patients expressed their satisfaction and are asking that The Rotary Club of St. Vincent visit more frequently.

Dr Kenneth Onu is a resident Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Beachmont Eye Institute/Eyes R Us Send questions to: Beachmont@gmail.com

Tel: 784 456-1210