Do: Enabling implementation

An operational plan is linked to the strategic plan, but adds specific details for all actions and projects to be implemented over the next year.

The Package of Eye Care Interventions (PECI) and the Eye Care Competency Framework (ECCF) can be useful tools when developing the operational plan.

Several further steps are recommended to enable service implementation based on the operational plan, including:

• publicity and awareness-raising
• further advocacy
• resource mobilisation
• training
• localised strategic planning and project management.

When the operational plan is finalised, create a dissemination plan to make stakeholders and staff aware of the plan and its relevance.

The implementation phase lasts several years, during which the eye care strategic plan directs the actions of government and other eye health stakeholders.

Ongoing action and management is critical to ensure the plan actually gets implemented and progress towards IPEC is made.

Consider your setting

• How decentralised is the health system in your country?
• How could it be ensured that IPEC is implemented effectively in each province, state, district or region?
• What would you do if it’s a challenge to reach consensus on activities, timelines and budget in the operational plan?