​Virginia Mawela
More than 13 000 cataract operations were performed in 14 public health facilities in Gauteng in the year 2018/19.
In addition to the 13 626 cataract operations, a total of 31 102 spectacles were issued to patients with refractive errors within the same financial year. 
Service delivery will also be improved as professionals in eye care have received a boost of 13 optometrists who successfully completed the diagnostics course in the University of Johannesburg recently.
These graduates cannot wait to practice their diagnostics privileges for quick, accurate and on the spot disease diagnosis as well as early referral and treatment.
In the same financial year, a total of five bursary holders, which were trained by the Department in different training institutions were successfully placed.  One in the West-Rand, two in Sedibeng Health District and two in Tshwane Health Districts.  This boost brings the total of optometrists in the province to 62. These optometrists together with 12 district based, dedicated ophthalmic nurses boasts a capable workforce within Primary Health Care Level to render comprehensive eye health care services.