“We need only one community eye bank in each city”

Dr Gullapalli N Rao, Founder and Director of L V Prasad Eye Institute

Eye-banking in India is poor? What is the solution?

The answer is “Community Eye Bank”, by which I mean an eye bank that serves the needs of one entire city. There is no need for more than one eye bank in each city. All others, if exist, will only collect eyes and send them to the eye bank. These are called “Eye Donation Centres”.

What are the advantages of a community eye-bank?

It facilitates creation of world class eye banks in each city, each of which costs up to Rs.50 lacks. There is no need to duplicate such expensive centres in a city. The idea is that the eye bank is run by the community and not by any one hospital. Community eye-bank should have an independent board, full time staff providing 24-hours coverage and maintains world class standards. This will then ensure the chances of success of transplant.

Is Ramayamma International Eye Bank associated with L V Prasad functioning on the lines of a community eye bank?

Yes. Five eye-banks have joined hands to form this community eye-bank at Ramayamma Eye bank. It has become possible because of the cooperation between all hospitals, corneal surgeons, the Government and EBAI.

Do you think that we need to legalise these standards to ensure better compliance with standards?

Legislation will definitely strengthen eye banking. However, I believe for implementation of standards, The government can pass a rule and legislation may not be required.