Henry Ford Community College Students Provide Free Care for Eye Evaluation Day

Students in Henry Ford Community College's Ophthalmic Technicians Program recently volunteered their time at Focus: HOPE’s Eye Evaluation Day, an annual vision screening event organized by Dr. Anne Nachazel of Eastside Eye Physicians in St. Clair Shores.

Sixteen second-year students compiled patient histories and vision screenings, and conducted pupil and muscle checks. Additionally, they performed glaucoma testing, and dilated eyes for the doctors.

Kathryn Draper, ophthalmic program director, and Michelle Nowicki, ophthalmic clinical coordinator, supervised the students during the event.

Eastside Eye Physicians supervise HFCC ophthalmic technician students in addition to many local ophthalmology residents and medical students who volunteer their time to give complete medical eye evaluations to the under-served population of Detroit. They collect new or gently used reading glasses, which are then fitted to patients in need of eyewear but cannot otherwise afford it.

During the event, patients receive information on any undiagnosed eye problems, as well as referrals to a doctor for necessary treatment. More than 100 patients were seen during Eye Evaluation Day.

Since the event began 10 years ago, more than 2,000 underprivileged patients have received appropriate vision care.

“I couldn't be more proud of the students’ dedication and willingness to participate in this fight against blindness. The students worked very hard all day accommodating and helping the patients, and the other volunteers. It was great seeing their skills at work for such a needy cause,” said Draper.