Restoring Vision in the Heart of the Gobi: LSF Medical Mission to Ömnögovi
Restoring Sight and Sharing Skills in Ömnögovi
In the vast expanse of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, access to specialized healthcare can be limited by distance, resources, and infrastructure. In April 2024, Laurel Surgical Foundation (LSF) traveled to Ömnögovi Province to bring essential eye care directly to the community. The mission included free patient screenings, sight-restoring surgeries, and a strong focus on training the next generation of ophthalmologists.
Teaching Residents, Strengthening Skills
One of the most valuable aspects of Laurel Surgical Foundation’s mission to Ömnögovi was the unique approach taken by Dr. Francis Law, an experienced ophthalmic surgeon and dedicated educator. Rather than focusing solely on performing surgeries himself, Dr. Law devoted significant time to training ophthalmology residents.
Residents were guided through every stage of patient care, from pre-operative evaluation to post-operative follow-up, with a strong emphasis on decision-making, troubleshooting, and managing unexpected complications. In the operating room, Dr. Law’s teaching style balanced hands-on experience with careful mentorship, allowing residents to practice delicate procedures while knowing an expert was there to step in if needed.
Beyond the technical skills, Dr. Law also modeled how to be an effective mentor, explaining surgical concepts clearly, using tactile teaching techniques, and fostering a calm and supportive learning environment. This approach prepares residents not just to perform surgery, but to confidently train the next generation of ophthalmologists, multiplying the impact of every mission.
Local Support
The success of the Ömnögovi mission was made possible by the warm welcome and collaboration of local healthcare teams and the support of Member of Parliament Uyanga Gantumur. MP Uyanga’s advocacy for improved healthcare access in her province has been instrumental in bringing resources and attention to the region. Her partnership with LSF underscores the importance of aligning local leadership and international expertise to deliver sustainable healthcare solutions.
A Lasting Impact in the Gobi
By combining high-quality patient care with structured resident training and strong local partnerships, LSF’s mission to Ömnögovi created a ripple effect of impact; patients regained their sight, residents advanced their surgical skills, and the province strengthened its capacity to deliver specialized eye care long after the team departed.
