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Elderly Face Vision Loss as Key Treatment Excluded
4 Feb
Summary
- Medisep 2 insurance scheme excludes vital eye treatments.
- Age-related macular degeneration patients at high risk.
- Pensioners may face irreversible blindness without coverage.
Pensioners in Kerala are facing a critical threat to their eyesight following the exclusion of essential treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) from the Medisep 2 health insurance scheme, which commenced on February 1. This exclusion places thousands at risk of irreversible vision loss.
Ophthalmologists highlight that AMD is a primary cause of vision impairment in individuals over 50. The omission of Intra-vitreal anti-VEGF injections from Medisep 2 is described as devastating by Dr. Devin Prabhakar, State president of the Qualified Private Medical Practitioners Association. These injections are vital for halting the progression of AMD.
Previously, under Medisep 1, coverage for up to six anti-VEGF injections annually, costing approximately ₹1 lakh, benefited numerous pensioners. Without this insurance support, patients risk irreversible blindness, significantly impacting their independence and overall well-being. The QPMPA has urged authorities to reinstate coverage for these sight-saving drugs.
