Bayer and Emirates Society of Ophthalmology Collaborate to Transform Eye Care

Bayer has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology (ESO) to revolutionize eye care solutions by leveraging the potential of data to bridge existing gaps in the ophthalmology journey and optimize treatment outcomes.

The collaboration aims to bolster advancements in patient-centric eye care through a visionary project titled RAFEK – Your Companion to See Happiness.

The project's five-year roadmap consists of three distinct phases, targeting patient gaps such as disease awareness, delayed referrals, and treatment adherence, alongside addressing concerns of Retina Specialists/Endocrinologists, such as the absence of communication channels and platforms for knowledge-sharing with patients. It will involve hosting periodic patient seminars, founding a unique patient organization, and ultimately establishing a digital hub.

Hugo Hagen, Senior Bayer Representative and Country Division Head Pharmaceutical Bayer Middle East said: “Bayer is extremely honored to have entered a strategic partnership with such an esteemed organization.  The terms of the MoU and our desired outcomes closely align with Bayer’s overarching vision ‘Health for All. Hunger for None’ and our undying commitment to creating a world where everyone can access the resources and care they need to lead a healthy life. Retinal diseases represent a significant global burden and remain a key focus area for Bayer – we are committed to supporting patients with age/diabetes-related and other retinal diseases. Establishing RAFEK, UAE’s First Ophthalmic National Patient Organization, is a tremendous milestone, and I am certain that our efforts are dedicated to empowering the patient community and elevating treatment outcomes.”

Sheikha Dr Noura Al Qassimi, President of the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology, said: “Being the national platform of ophthalmologists in UAE, we are consistently working to ensure the provision of excellence in eye care by supporting the ophthalmology community. We are proud to have entered a partnership with Bayer and truly believe that RAFEK, this nationwide patient-centric project, will serve to boost the level of awareness and ophthalmic care in the nation and empower patients to have a greater voice in shaping their patient journey.”