Phillips Eye Institute launches community program to provide free vision screening for thousands of public school children
MINNEAPOLIS 11/13/2007--An estimated 10 to 15 percent of children have undiagnosed vision problems that can affect a child's ability to fully participate in school activities. Impaired vision can also give rise to a troubling pattern of diminished self-esteem, faltering academic performance, a loss of interest in school, and increased truancy and delinquent behavior. These factors combine to dramatically hinder success for impacted children – both inside and outside the classroom.
Vision screening is not standard at most schools. What was once a traditional mechanism to identify vision issues has been eroded by budget cuts and competing demands placed on school nurses. As a result, many vision issues in school-aged children go undetected.
As the Upper Midwest's only specialty eye care facility, Phillips Eye Institute recognizes its fundamental role in improving the eye health of the community. In celebration of the organization's 20th anniversary, Phillips Eye Institute has launched the Early Youth Eyecare (EYE) community initiative to provide essential vision screening services, identify and diagnosis impairments and ensure follow-up and treatment. Over 6,000 Minneapolis school children in Kindergarten, first and fifth grades are participating – and plans are in place to quickly expand the program in future years.
"This is a tremendous opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child," said David Orbuch, President of Phillips Eye Institute. "Simple vision screening, coupled with further treatment can help to close the achievement gap and put these kids 'back in the game' so they can reach their fullest potential."
Phillips Eye Institute is excited to work with Catherine and Kirby Puckett, Jr. who serve as the official spokespeople for the EYE initiative. And out of a strong desire to honor the legacy of their father, the late Kirby Puckett, they too have had their vision screened.
Initial funding for EYE will come from private foundations, corporate funding and individual donors as well as proceeds from a successful urban cocktail party event that raised over $200,000 earlier this month.
About Phillips Eye Institute
Phillips Eye Institute is a nationally recognized specialty hospital dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders. The Institute draws patients from the five-state region and has a medical staff of 170 ophthalmologists. The Institute is part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, a nonprofit network of hospitals, clinics and other health care services. Phillips Eye Institute is found online at www.phillipseyeinstitute.com.
Phillips Eye Institute Foundation: Investing in sight for our community
The Phillips Eye Institute Foundation is a nonprofit organization operating solely for the purpose of furthering the mission and values of the Phillips Eye Institute. Donations to the Foundation are tax deductible. Please call 612-775-8758 for more about how to support our work.
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Related Links
Phillips Eye Institute: Services and programs
Allina Hospitals & Clinics: Make a gift
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