[Nyabs] Glaucoma Awareness Month

[Kathryn Carroll]

Glaucoma Awareness Month & Resources for Free/Low-Cost Eye Exams & Eyeglasses  In recognition of National Glaucoma Awareness Month, below is information on free or low-cost resources for eye exams and eyeglasses.  Eye Exams  a.. EyeCare America, a public service foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), provides comprehensive eye exams and care for up to one year, often at no out-of-pocket expense to eligible candidates age 65 or older.  b.. InfantSEE® is a public health program that provides comprehensive vision assessment by member optometrists to ensure early detection of eye conditions in babies during the first year of life, regardless of a family’s income or access to insurance coverage.  c.. Lions Clubs International, a volunteer service organization with local chapters, sponsors community programs that may help with the purchasing of corrective eyewear or obtaining eye health care for individuals that meet their criteria. Use the Club Locator on the organization’s website to find a Lions Club near you.  d.. VISION USA, coordinated by the American Optometric Association (AOA), this program provides free eye care to eligible uninsured, low-income workers and their families.  Surgery  a.. Mission Cataract USA provides free cataract surgery to people of all ages who have no other means to pay. Surgeries are scheduled on one day each year.  Eyeglasses  a.. New Eyes for the Needy purchases new prescription eyeglasses through a voucher program for children and adults in the U.S. who cannot afford prescription glasses on their own.  b.. Sight for Students is a Vision Service Plan (VSP) program that provides free eye exams and glasses to eligible low-income and uninsured children 18 years and younger.  Prescription Drugs  a.. Patient Access Network helps eligible underinsured patients afford the copayments for pharmaceutical treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration.  Government Programs  a.. Medicare Benefit for Eye Exams Diabetes – People with diabetes can get a yearly dilated eye exam to check for diabetic eye disease. Glaucoma – People at high risk for glaucoma are entitled to an eye exam once a year. Patients must pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible.  b.. Children' s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers doctor visits, prescription medicines, hospitalizations and much more for children 18 years and younger at little or no cost. In addition, many states pay dental care, eye care and medical equipment costs. To find health coverage programs in your state, visit the InsureKidsNow. gov website. Kathryn Carroll Intern, One Billion Strong J.D. Candidate, St. John's University School of Law Class of 2013 Google Voice: (347) 455-1521
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