Layton Rahmatullah Benevolent Trust or LRBT is Pakistan's largest non-governmental organisation, working to fight blindness in the country.^[1] It is assumed to be not only the largest eye provider in the country but also the largest eye care provider in the world to have treated over 54 million patients in 38 years. The organization treats 10,200 OPD patients every single day.^[2] Established in 1984,^[1] it is based in Karachi with hospitals and primary eye care centers throughout the country.

Name

The Trust is named for its two founders: Graham Layton and Zaka Rahmatulla,^[3] both whom contributed Rs. 500,000/- each to start it.^[1]

History

The trust was founded in 1984 with Rs. 500,000 apiece by Graham Layton, an Englishman who become a Pakistani citizen, and Zaka Rahmatulla. The two began by setting up a mobile health unit in Tando Bago, Sindh. Upon his death, Layton left his estate for the benefit of LRBT.

Major sponsors

• Graham Layton Trust
• Sight Savers International (UK)
• Pakistan Baitul Mall
• Pakistan Central Zakat Administration
• Infaq Foundation (Pakistan)
• Muhammad Usman Peracha (Wonder Group of Industries)

Services provided

The following services are provided at their hospitals:^[4]

• Cataract surgery
• Cornea and External Eye Disease
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Diagnostic procedures including Fundus Flourescien Angiography, Optical Coherence Tomography, Field Analysis etc.
• Glaucoma
• Lacrimal (Tear Duct) Disorder
• Laser treatment
• Oculo-plastic Services
• Orbital Disorder
• Pediatric eye care
• Retinal disorders including Vitreo- Retinal Surgery
• Uveitis Clinic

Network

As of 2023, there are 19 fully-equipped hospitals and 56 primary eyecare centers across Pakistan. Any Pakistani is just 200 km away from a LRBT facility.^[5]

References

External links

• Official website
• Graham Layton Trust