Novartis, the global leader in eye care, is calling for the eXcellence in Ophthalmology Vision Award (XOVA), co-sponsored by Alcon and Novartis Pharmaceuticals. The XOVA, launched in 2010, provides funding to projects worldwide that support initiatives that help deliver sustained improvements in eye care globally. It is open to all eye care specialists, including trainees and specialist nurses and grant funding will be provided to the employing institution of the winning applicant. Ophthalmologists, optometrists and allied eye healthcare professionals, including those in training, are all eligible to apply. Previous awards have included: improving eye care in children, reaching rural communities, providing training and education, building or expanding eye-care centers, and installing or improving technology.
"Many healthcare professionals visit developing countries to help improve eye care among the local populations, but their skills often leave with them. Our aim with the XOVA is to support sustainable improvements of eye care around the world, by funding projects that show long-term viability and benefit," said Dirk Sauer, Global Head Development, Ophthalmology Franchise.
Eligibility
- The XOVA is awarded to eye care professionals who have devised non-profit educational or innovative initiatives;
- These not-for-profit educational or innovative initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on unmet needs in the field of eye care;
- Proposals must indicate how the initiative can be run in the local country using local resources after the funds have been used;
- Proposals must demonstrate with clear plans and examples long-term viability, impact and benefit in the local area.
Applications must be endorsed by a legitimate academic institution (e.g. a university) or organization (e.g. recognized not-for-profit organizations, hospitals and clinics) and grant funding will be provided to the employing institution of the winning applicant.
The XOVA was initiated and is supported by Alcon and Novartis Pharmaceuticals, global leaders in eye care both committed to improving eye care around the world. Funding is provided in the form of a grant and to date a total of EUR 650,000 has been paid. Applications for the 2014 XOVA program are open until 30 June; the winners will be presented the grant at a ceremony taking place at an important congress in the fall.
About Novartis
Novartis provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, eye care, cost-saving generic pharmaceuticals, preventive vaccines and diagnostic tools, over-the-counter and animal health products. Novartis is the only global company with leading positions in these areas. In 2013, the Group achieved net sales of USD 57.9 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.9 billion (USD 9.6 billion excluding impairment and amortization charges). Novartis Group companies employ approximately 136,000 full-time-equivalent associates and operate in more than 140 countries around the world.