Nepal leads as the first country to utilize WHO’s updated Eye Care Situation Analysis Tool for strengthening eye care services

Kathmandu, Bagmati province - Nepal has become the first country to assess its eye care services using the updated WHO Eye Care Situation Analysis Tool (ECSAT). This standardized tool supports countries in planning, monitoring trends and evaluating progress toward implementing integrated people-centred eye care, aligning with global targets for improved vision care by 2030. The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) led the process with input from experts and stakeholders at all levels with WHO support. The findings and recommendations of the survey were endorsed by a high-level steering committee on eye health led by the MoHP Secretary, and the results of the survey were disseminated on 18 December 2024. With technical support from WHO, MoHP’s Policy, Planning, and Monitoring Division conducted the comprehensive situation analysis of the country’s eye care services. The survey identified service gaps, outlined priority areas and provided data to strengthen eye care policies and programmes. Based on the findings and recommendations, WHO Nepal and partners will support the implementation of related programmes to improve Nepal’s eye care system and services.