Opthalmic surgery with a difference

A Somali medical doctor has set up an opthalmic surgery with a difference. Part of the clinic's services involves a website, which provides free on-line medical advice for the Somali community throughout the world.

Established in north London two years ago, the Feytaan clinic specialises in providing eye examinations, eye tests, glasses and frames and contact lenses. It also provides treatments for glaucoma, diabetes and minor eye infections.

The clinic was established by Dr. Osman Barre, who graduated in medicine from a university in Pakistan. He later specialised in Opthalmology in Germany. Feytaan is the nick-name of Dr. Barre's family.

Dr. Barre had often thought about setting up a business, but never really got around to doing it.

He says: "One day, I was walking around town and saw the Brent Business Venture sign, offering business support. I decided to walk in and request an appointment. After a few minutes, I got to see George Poole, a BBV Business Adviser, who helped me to realise my dream.

"BBV can open doors to business success. But you must be able to go through the doors yourself.

"BBV helped me to set up a business plan and provided me with valuable advice and support.

"I raised part of the finances for setting up the business from family and friends. Then BBV also helped me to secure a loan. The assistance given by BBV is very efficient and open-hearted."

In addition to opthalmic services, Dr. Barre is active in community work to improve the health and well-being of the Somali community in London. He recognises the power of the Internet is providing medical advice. The clinic's website http://www.feytaan.com, provides medical advice and assistance in Somali.

Dr. Barre says: "The website is gaining popularity among the Somali community, not only in the UK, but in other parts of the world. I get requests for advice from people in Somalia, and Somalis who live in the USA and other parts of Europe.

"The website is an effective tool, which can enable people to ask any medical-related question, while remaining anonymous."

Dr. Barre plans to use his business skills and experience to benefit Somalia. He is working hard to open a state-of-the-art medical college in Mogadishu.

Contact information:

Dr. Osman Barre
1 Dudden Hill Parade
London NW10 1BY

www.feytaan.com
T: 020 8830 9904