Health Systems Strengthening

Strengthening health care systems is a cornerstone of The Fred Hollows Foundation’s mission to end avoidable blindness and improve eye health globally. By focusing on systemic improvements, we aim to create sustainable and effective eye health services that cater to the needs of communities around the world. Our approach is holistic, addressing multiple facets of the health system to ensure comprehensive and lasting impact. By strengthening systems we can ensure individuals get the care they need.

How we strengthen the system

The Fred Hollows Foundation’s approach focuses on building sustainable and effective eye health services that can meet the needs of communities long-term. We achieve this by addressing key areas known as health system building blocks, which guide our efforts to enhance the functioning and sustainability of eye care systems.

Health system building blocks

The World Health Organization describe several health system building blocks that are critical to ensure effective health service delivery. Investment in these building blocks ensures that services are available, affordable, and accessible, and delivering high quality and timely care to those who need it. The Fred Hollows Foundation works to strengthen each of these critical building blocks:

Eye health data and information systems

We invest in and support collection and use of eye health data to make informed decisions and ensure accountability. Accurate data and well-functioning data systems are critical for local policy makers, and service planners and managers. This helps determine what services are needed where.

Eye health workforce

We invest in and support the training, competence, and geographic coverage of eye health professionals. A well-trained and widely distributed workforce is essential for providing quality eye care services to all who need them.

Equipment and technology

We invest in and support further development of infrastructure and tools for delivering eye care services. Access to modern equipment and technology is critical for effective diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye health conditions.

Eye care financing

We support local governments to establish sustainable financing mechanism and advocate for sufficient investment in eye care so that patient access to services is optimised while minimising out-of-pocket costs. Financial barriers should not prevent individuals from receiving the eye care they need and accessing health care should not drive people into poverty.

Eye care leadership and governance

We support local leaders, governments, and service providers to develop leadership capabilities, establish mechanisms for coordination and management of eye health services. Strong governance structures are vital for the integration and sustainability of eye health programs.

Community engagement

We support our local partners to understand the needs of their local communities and promote behaviours and activities that enhance eye health within communities. Empowering communities to participate in eye health activities and with their local eye care services assists to reduce delays and barriers in access to the eye care people need.

Our eye health initiatives

Our initiatives contribute to a stronger and more effective health care system, ultimately leading to improved eye health outcomes and reduced blindness and vision loss.

Training programs

We run extensive training programs for eye health professionals to ensure they have the skills and knowledge required to deliver high-quality care.

Infrastructure development

We invest in the development of eye care facilities and the provision of modern equipment to improve service delivery.

Community outreach

We engage with communities to raise awareness about eye health and promote preventive measures.

Data systems

We implement robust data collection and management systems to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our interventions.

Advocacy and policy

We work with governments and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that support sustainable eye health systems.

If you are interested in learning more about the work of The Foundation, read our Theory of Change.

Read Our Theory of Change