HelpMeSee has announced the expansion of its simulation-based training programme to Latin America, in a move to combat the global shortage of cataract surgeons.
The non-profit organisation has formed collaborations with two ophthalmology institutions in the region.
These institutions are Visualiza, an eye hospital in Guatemala, and Clínica Oftalmológica del Caribe (COFCA).
HelpMeSee, with these new partnerships, aims to provide high-fidelity, virtual reality (VR)-based surgical simulation training to aspiring cataract surgeons in previously underserved areas.
The training programme is known for its standardised approach, which includes real-time instructor feedback and validated assessment tools.
The collaboration with Visualiza and COFCA complements the existing partnership with the Instituto Mexicano de Oftalmologia (IMO) in Querétaro, Mexico, furthering HelpMeSee’s mission to expand cataract surgery training.
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By GlobalDataHelpMeSee Latin America Research and Business Development director Dr Van Lansingh said: “These new partnerships not only expand the geographic reach of simulation-based training, but also strengthen our shared commitment to providing effective and equitable surgical education for future cataract surgeons.”
The HelpMeSee training programme focuses on Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS), a procedure that is both cost-effective and efficient in yielding successful outcomes.
MSICS training system offers VR simulation with haptic feedback, learning management systems, courseware, and electronic learning resources.
With the aim of ensuring that all communities are able to access trained MSICS experts, HelpMeSee has established over 40 simulators and 15 training centres globally.
The organisation collaborates with universities, governments, and innovation centres to address the cataract blindness crisis.
