After several years partnering with Wealth by Health, a non-profit community health organization, to provide monthly eye exams at the Rosemead Community Center to underserved populations, Western University’s College of Optometry hosted its first solo vision clinic at the center on Friday, February 2, 2024.
Sixteen community members were served by a WesternU faculty, Dr. Loretta Ng, and four 3rd-year students (Sergio Palafox, Amanda Lopez, Lakith Ranaweera, Daniel Cardenas). As with previous clinics held at the Rosemead Community Center, the demand for services like this was clear. Over 80 community members registered early to receive a spot for the limited eye exams over the next few months. The event provided comprehensive eye exams (checking for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes/hypertension affecting the eye and other health concerns), prescriptions for glasses, and in most cases, eyeglasses (single vision or a lined bifocal) were ordered onsite to be delivered.
Community outreach is a vital part of the College of Optometry in providing an education model for involving medical student volunteers, while providing access to quality health care to those members in our community – many of whom may otherwise go untreated.
Dr. Ng said, “We are thrilled to be able to continue working with Wealth by Health by providing more consistent vision services to this community while advancing the education of our optometry students. These partnerships and initiatives are critical to deliver on demand to make vision health a priority and giving access to those who may not otherwise receive these health services. The College of Optometry looks forward to expanding our support for Wealth by Health and other similar local community organizations that benefit those in need.”
This vision clinic is planned to be provided at the Rosemead Community Center on a monthly basis.