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Community-Based Eye Care

The American Academy of Ophthalmology supports expanding community-based eye care programs that help FQHCs recruit participants, conduct vision screenings, and connect patients with follow-up care. Strengthening these efforts advances equitable access to vision care and furthers the Academy’s mission of protecting sight and empowering lives. 

 

The experience of starting an eye disease screening program is detailed in a report by the Academy's Task Force for Community Health Centers. This report is a valuable resource for anyone hoping to launch a vision screening program.

Model Vision Screening Programs

Each vision screening program operates in its own unique way. The Academy's Task Force has developed outlines of existing programs to provide a framework for those looking to develop a screening program in their community.

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Read about the real-life experiences of vision screening programs below.

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Considering launching your own program? Ask these questions before you begin.

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Temple Health
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy, Student Clinic

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University of Michigan 
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Ann Arbor, Michigan

Diabetic Retinopathy, Telemedicine, Glaucoma, Eyeglasses, FQHC, CDC VHI

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University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy, CDC VHI

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Illinois Eye and Ear
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Chicago, Illinois

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy, Student Clinic

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Casey Eye Institute
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Portland, Oregon

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy

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Los Angeles County​
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Los Angeles, California 

Diabetic Retinopathy

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Kaiser Permanente Southern California​

Pasadena, California

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy

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Durham
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Durham, North Carolina

AI, Diabetic Retinopathy

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Providence Rhode Island Free Clinic

Providence, Rhode Island

​AI, Diabetic Retinopathy

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