Day 1 at the VNIO

The first day of our visit at the Vietnam National Institute of Ophthalmology was quite an experience. After a ride through the streets of Hanoi competing with thousands of people on motorbikes, we arrived at the Institute's front gate. There were literally hundreds of people there -- ranging from small children to older adults -- which is just one indication of the eye care needs in this country. We were greeted by a banner in the main courtyard recognizing the Illinois Association of Ophthalmology phaco course this week and next.

During our tour of the Institute, we were fortunate to have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Do Nhu Hon, director of the NIO. He was very cordial and spent a lot of time with us. We were grateful to learn that he had traveled back to Hanoi from one of the provinces in order to meet us.

We also spoke with Dr. Hoang Thi Minh Chau, a cornea specialist, shared information about medical education in Vietnam and the functions of the NIO. A highlight of our tour was the opportunity to observe surgery. On two different floors, they have four operating rooms each with two cases underway simultaneously. NIO ophthalmologists, Vietnamese residents in training, and a couple of foreign ophthalmologists were all quite busy with a variety of cases. It was quite a well-organized system!

Finally, we observed the lecture room where the phaco course will be taught, as well as a brand new wet lab outfitted by Alcon. We were surprised to see a plaque on the wall recognizing the Illinois Association of Ophthalmology!