From Training to Transformation: Mongolia’s New Generation of Glaucoma Specialists Improves Eye Care for Thousands
A three-year Sight For All partnership has transformed glaucoma care in Mongolia, training five ophthalmologists, introducing new technologies, and improving access to sight-saving treatment for thousands of patients.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in Mongolia and can cause irreversible vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early. Recognising the growing need for specialist glaucoma services, Sight For All launched the Mongolia Glaucoma In-Country Fellowship Project in July 2023 with support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). The project was delivered in partnership with Mongolia-Japan Hospital, First State Hospital, and Third State Hospital in Ulaanbaatar.
Over three years, five Mongolian ophthalmologists successfully completed the Fellowship program, receiving advanced clinical and surgical training from an international team of glaucoma specialists. Independent evaluation confirmed that all five Fellows graduated from the program in June 2026, significantly strengthening Mongolia’s capacity to diagnose, monitor and treat glaucoma.
The Fellowship model combined structured teaching, mentorship, clinical supervision and hands-on surgical training. Across the life of the project, 17 international Visionaries delivered 55 lecture sessions, 42 clinic sessions and 27 operating theatre sessions, contributing more than 1100 hours of specialist training.
The impact on patients has been substantial. During the reporting period alone, the Fellows saw more than 10,460 patients, including 2,984 glaucoma patients.
More than 2,466 patients received medical treatment, while 518 patients underwent glaucoma-related surgical procedures, helping to preserve sight and improve quality of life for people affected by this potentially blinding condition.
In 2024, through the Australian Awards Fellowship, the Fellows had the opportunity to travel to Australia to attend the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) Congress, undertake glaucoma observerships in Sydney, and see first-hand how glaucoma units operate in Australia.
Beyond training, the project invested in strengthening local infrastructure. Hospitals received specialist glaucoma equipment, including suturolysis lenses and goniolenses, while Mongolia-Japan Hospital was equipped with new operating theatre video technology to support teaching and case documentation. The project also introduced Mongolia’s first Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) laser, creating access to a modern glaucoma treatment previously unavailable in the country. Hundreds of patients have already benefited from this technology, while local clinicians are using the equipment to support ongoing research and evidence-based practice.
Innovation was another hallmark of the project. Through the Eyeonic initiative, technology has been introduced across 20 hospitals to support the screening and assessment of glaucoma and neurological eye conditions. The initiative is contributing to research while helping clinicians identify patients who may otherwise experience delayed diagnosis and treatment.
The project also supported broader ophthalmic capacity development. Three Mongolian ophthalmologists undertook advanced phacoemulsification training in India, helping to strengthen cataract surgery skills alongside the glaucoma training program. The ANCP acquittal report notes that training partnerships extended beyond Mongolia through collaboration with international supporters and teaching institutions.
According to the project’s independent evaluation, the Fellowship has not only increased specialist expertise but has strengthened collaboration between hospitals and laid foundations for future leadership in glaucoma care. International Visionaries highlighted the progress achieved by the Fellows, noting that senior Fellows are now mentoring colleagues and helping build a stronger glaucoma community within Mongolia.
The project concluded in June 2026 with a graduation and closing ceremony hosted at the Australian Embassy in Ulaanbaatar, recognising the achievements of the Fellows and the many partners who contributed to the program’s success.
Sight For All gratefully acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP), the Australian Embassy in Mongolia, and Glaukos, whose contributions helped make this initiative possible. Together, these partnerships have helped create a lasting legacy of stronger eye health services, better-trained specialists, and improved access to sight-saving glaucoma care for people across Mongolia.