Advocating for Eye Health
MDNZ represents the macular degeneration community as a trustee of Eye Health Aotearoa. Eye Health Aotearoa is made up of key eye health organisations and our aim is to improve New Zealanders eye health by bringing the issue to the attention of government and decision makers.
Leading into the General Election this year, Eye Health Aotearoa has called for government to implement the following:
Appoint a Clinical Director of Eye Health within the Ministry of Health. A similar role has recently been appointed in the UK, and the role in NZ would provide leadership, advice, and support for eye health to the Health Ministry and wider health system.
Establish a National Eye Health and Vision Loss Prevention Leadership Group in the Ministry of Health. Groups like this already exist for other areas of health, and we are calling for eye health experts to have a voice around the Ministry of Health table.
Identify barriers to eye care services and treatments, and apply effective solutions universally. Eye health services differ from region to region and are not delivered equally throughout NZ. We are calling for barriers to be removed and equity of access for all.
Fund a National Eye Health Survey. Currently we don’t have accurate data on the state of eye health in NZ. We can only estimate how many people have eye diseases or vision loss. A survey would provide evidence which would inform services and actions to prevent vision loss and reduce inequities.
Increase eye health awareness and education through supporting groups such as MDNZ. Currently MDNZ receives no government funding, unlike our sister organisation in Australia (where eye health outcomes are significantly better). We believe the government should step up to fund this important sight saving work.
Establish a referral system for patients to access advice, information and support from organisations such as MDNZ when diagnosed with a disease or condition.
Finally, for the government to develop an Eye Health Action Plan 2027-2035 and commit resource to implementing it.
Eye Health Aotearoa is speaking with politicians and political parties’ health spokespeople. You can help raise this important issue too. As the general election is only a few months away, now is the time to raise these with your local MP and candidates, to put these important issues on the radar of our elected representatives.
You can find out more at https://www.eyehealthaotearoa.org.nz/
