Vision clinics help underserved communities see more clearly
Regular eye care is not just about clear vision — it’s an essential step in protecting your eyesight, early detection of disease and supporting your overall health.
An estimated 93 million U.S. adults are at high risk for vision loss1 — and only half have gone to the eye doctor in the past year. People in underserved areas are often at even greater risk, due to a lack of access to vision care.2
To help address this crucial issue, UnitedHealthcare Vision, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Pennsylvania collaborated with the North America affiliate of the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation to bring no cost vision care services to patients in Seattle and Philadelphia.
The two no-cost community vision clinics helped low-income and uninsured families in these communities receive vision care, helping to remove barriers for those in need of comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses. Hundreds of people received a free comprehensive eye exam and glasses at both events. Those ages 5 and up were eligible to receive eye exam services.
Kenneth, a Seattle resident currently experiencing homelessness, was able to receive an eye exam and get a pair of glasses in the same day.
“I don’t know what’s next for me, but I am relieved to no longer be worrying about my vision and getting glasses,” Kenneth said.
A comprehensive eye exam is about much more than just getting a prescription for glasses. It can help detect serious conditions like diabetic retinopathy4 and glaucoma, which, if left untreated, can lead to blindness. Eye exams can also help uncover other health conditions, including diabetes4 and some types of cancer.5
“People in underserved communities across the country don’t always have access to important routine vision care,” said Dr. Premilla Banwait, vice president of clinical programs, UnitedHealthcare Vision. “We know these eye exams can often help identify other health issues not usually associated with the eyes, making routine vision care crucial to overall wellness.”
Why it matters
Vision care is a gateway to better health. By bringing these services directly to communities in need, UnitedHealthcare Vision and its partners are helping people see more clearly — and live healthier lives.
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