Choithram Expands Free Medical Services for Children & the Visually Impaired

In a groundbreaking effort to expand healthcare access, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and international medical organizations, has launched two major initiatives targeting preventable blindness and pediatric surgical needs in Sierra Leone.

The Cataract Surgery Outreach Program, which began on March 10, 2025, aims to restore vision to 2,000 individuals through free cataract surgeries and advanced ophthalmic care. The country has been divided into four operational zones, with screenings conducted at district hospitals. Supported by Choithram Netralaya (India), Noor Dubai under the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and the Choithram International Foundation, the program ensures world-class eye care at no cost to beneficiaries.

Using both traditional cataract extraction and the advanced Phacoemulsification technique, surgeries are scheduled from March 26 to July 15, 2025, under the supervision of the National Eye Health Program Manager. A rigorous three-stage screening process includes district-level assessments, remote telemedicine evaluations, and final selections for surgery. Choithram Memorial Hospital is covering transportation, accommodation, and daily allowances for patients, while post-operative care will be provided at district hospitals. Additionally, the program includes training for local healthcare professionals and the introduction of state-of-the-art surgical equipment.

Simultaneously, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in collaboration with the Bintumani Association, will provide free pediatric surgeries from March 21 to April 4, 2025, benefiting children under 15 with treatable conditions. A team of expert German surgeons will perform procedures for neck fistulas, cysts, soft tissue tumors, hernias, undescended testes, and congenital urogenital and gastrointestinal abnormalities. However, conditions such as hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, clubfoot, and cleft lip and palate will not be included this year.

Registration for pediatric surgeries, which began on February 24, 2025, has seen an overwhelming response. Screenings are currently underway, with eligible cases referred to Choithram Memorial Hospital for surgery. A key advocate for the program is Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, who played a pivotal role in securing the partnership with the German medical team.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to making quality healthcare accessible, emphasizing that these initiatives will bridge healthcare gaps for underserved communities.

With limited slots available, families are encouraged to act quickly. These initiatives mark a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s medical landscape, demonstrating the power of strategic partnerships and humanitarian healthcare.