Towards universal eye health: regional action plan for the Western Pacific (2014-2019)

The lack of universal access to eye-care services has varying causes across the Western Pacific Region. Some countries lack the capacity to provide specialised health services and trained eye-care personnel. As a result, eye-care services may only be available in urban centres, beyond the reach of people who cannot travel far. Other countries may have sufficient trained eye-care personnel and infrastructure to provide comprehensive service; however, these services may be privatised and unaffordable for those most in need. While the main objectives of this publication are aligned with the global action plan for the prevention of avoidable visual impairment, this Regional Action Plan provides a regional context for WHO support to help address specific needs in Asia and the Pacific.