Cabinet approves compensation for four more patients who lost vision after eye surgery

The Cabinet has approved compensation for patients who lost their vision following the use of Prednisolone Acetate eye drops after surgeries, in a case that raised serious concerns over patient safety. Between March 3 and May 16, 2023, several patients who underwent eye surgeries at the Nuwara Eliya District General Hospital experienced blindness or further deterioration of sight linked to the use of the liquid eye medicine. An investigation confirmed the incidents, and compensation has already been paid to 17 affected patients. A special expert ophthalmic committee was subsequently appointed to examine similar cases at other hospitals during the same period. The committee recommended compensation for four additional patients who became blind due to complications. Taking into account the recommendations presented by the Minister of Health, the Cabinet decided to provide compensation to these four patients as well, at the rate of Rs. 1 million per patient. (Newswire)