SBI Funds Management Limited (SBIFML) has officially launched two MobilEYES Clinic Vans in collaboration with the VisionSpring Foundation. The primary aim of this initiative is to enhance access to eye-care services for underserved populations in New Delhi and Bangalore. With the objective of conducting approximately 10,000 vision screenings each year, this programme also plans to distribute up to 7,500 pairs of eyeglasses to those in need.

This initiative addresses various barriers that hinder individuals from accessing eye-care. These barriers include the costs associated with travel, geographical distance to facilities, and the time constraints that many individuals face. The mobile clinics are strategically designed to operate within local communities, educational institutions, workplaces, and public transport areas.

Implementation of Services

The VisionSpring Foundation will serve as the implementation partner for this project. Their responsibilities include carrying out detailed vision screenings and dispensing corrective eyewear primarily aimed at addressing presbyopia. Additionally, the foundation will provide referrals for individuals requiring further medical evaluation, including those with conditions such as cataracts.

To facilitate ongoing support for individuals requiring follow-up services, a toll-free helpline will be established. This will ensure that participants can easily access additional assistance when needed, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of the programme.

A launch event to introduce the MobilEYES Clinic Vans was held in New Delhi, attended by key representatives from both SBIFML and VisionSpring Foundation. This event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing community health outcomes.

Statements from Leadership

Debasish Mishra, Managing Director & CEO of SBI Funds Management Limited, expressed the company’s commitment to community welfare initiatives that aim to improve access to essential services. He stated that the programme is designed to bridge the gap for those who encounter challenges in availing of eye-care services, reflecting a responsible approach to enhancing community well-being.

Similarly, Anshu Taneja, Managing Director at VisionSpring Foundation, highlighted the importance of clear vision for overall well-being and economic stability. He noted the multitude of challenges faced by underserved communities when accessing quality eye-care services, which often include significant travel distances, high costs, and uncomfortable stigma around wearing eyeglasses. The MobilEYES Clinic Vans will directly tackle these issues by bringing affordable eyecare to local communities.

Over the coming year, both organisations will monitor the initiative’s impact, with plans to expand the reach of the MobilEYES Clinic Vans. They aim to assist more individuals in obtaining necessary eye-care services without the burdens of long-distance travel.

Background of the Organizations

SBI Funds Management Limited operates as the asset management wing of SBI Mutual Fund, a collaboration between the State Bank of India (SBI) and Amundi, one of the largest asset managers in Europe. The company offers an extensive range of financial services, including mutual funds and specialised investment solutions aimed at a diverse clientele ranging from retail investors to corporate entities.

VisionSpring Foundation, a social enterprise, focuses on creating access to eyeglasses for low-income populations. The organisation reportedly conducts vision screenings for over 2.7 million individuals across India annually, providing eyewear to approximately 1.2 million people. They have distributed nearly 9.5 million pairs of eyeglasses, significantly impacting the economic situation of low-income households, with an estimated economic benefit of over $3 billion.

Through collaborative efforts, these organisations aim to significantly enhance the eye-care landscape across India, contributing to broader health and economic improvements.

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