The Centre for Eye Health (CFEH) will take a more targeted approach to reducing the incidence of preventable blindness following a strategic review by its founder and primary investor, Guide Dogs New South Wales (GDN NSW) in consultation with partner UNSW Sydney, as part of its future strategy development.
GDN has committed to continuing its investment in early detection of vision impairment through CFEH. Provision of clinical services will continue but are expected to become more targeted to better assist patients with the highest clinical need. Future research and education programs at CFEH will evolve under the expertise of UNSW’s Faculty of Medicine & Health including the School of Optometry and Vision Science. A project group across GDN, UNSW and CFEH named Horizon has been established to map the future strategy of CFEH, ensuring it aligns with the mission of both GDN and UNSW.
Provision of clinical services will continue but are expected to become more targeted to better assist patients with the highest clinical need
“We are all looking forward to exploring new joint initiatives to positively impact outcomes for the blind and low vision community, including in capacity development, innovation and placement opportunities for our workforce in eye health,” says Sarah Holland, Executive Manager of CFEH and member of Horizon. “Though change is often unsettling, we are excited for the future of CFEH and look forward to working with our stakeholders and our community to positively impact the early detection space.
“Both GDN and UNSW are committed to ensuring that the expertise developed at CEFH over the past 12 years continues to develop and has a positive impact on both patients and industry. Early detection saves sight, and we are committed to reducing the incidence of preventable blindness for years to come.”