June 27, 2008

Seniors: ‘Don’t lose sight of your independence’

EyeCare America offers no cost medical eye care to qualified seniors

This summer TV legend Betty White and EyeCare America are teaming up to remind seniors, "Don't Lose Sight of Your Independence." The national health campaign is intended to remind the senior community about the value of eyesight.

“I truly understand the importance and value of eyesight. It is a precious gift that should not be taken for granted,” said Ms. White. “I’m happy that I can do my part in helping older Americans get the eye care they need. I only hope that seniors across the country will pick up the phone and take advantage of EyeCare America’s free eye exams. It’s a call that can save their sight.”

EyeCare America’s 3-month promotional campaign runs May 31 through September 1. This program offers eye exams and up to one year of medical care at no out-of-pocket cost for seniors who are without an ophthalmologist (a medical eye doctor). To see if you, a loved one or a friend, 65 and older, is eligible to receive a referral for an eye exam and care, call 1-800-222-EYES (3937). The Seniors EyeCare Program help line operates 24 hours a day, every day, year-round.

EyeCare America, a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmol-ogy, operates one of the largest programs of its kind in American medicine. All eligible callers receive a referral to one of 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists. The seniors program provides a comprehensive eye exam and care for any disease detected in the initial visit for up to one year, at no out-of-pocket cost.

EyeCare America's Sen-iors EyeCare Program is designed for people who:

- Are US citizens or legal residents
- Are age 65 and older
- Have not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years
- Do not belong to an HMO or the VA

For a Seniors EyeCare Program referral, those interested may call the toll-free help line 1-800-222-EYES (3937). The Seniors EyeCare Program help line operates all day, every day, year-round.

Volunteer physicians agree to accept Medicare or other insurance as payment in full, resulting in no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. Individuals without insurance are seen at no charge.