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In the United States, millions of people struggle with vision loss and blindness. Due to factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle, vision problems are increasingly becoming a health concern among residents of New York. Cases of vision problems are higher among individuals with poor health and are also impacted by social determinants of vision loss, such as educational attainment, social environment and community, and access to healthcare. Lastly, people experiencing vision defects are also more likely to have other health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and mobility issues. Given this prevalence of and vulnerability to eye health problems, government bodies, and health institutions in New York are prioritizing eye care programs in the state.
Increasing accessibility of vision care
On the public health front, the state is accelerating efforts to ensure that vision care is more accessible and equitable. For instance, health officials in Orange County, New York, are refocusing their efforts on fundamental health services, which include basic vision care. While infection control, disease surveillance, and vaccination still continue, there are also community outreach programs that aim to promote and increase awareness of health concerns such as eye problems. Institutions, including the Yonkers Lions Club, have also helped eyewear become more accessible to New Yorkers and people worldwide. The club received a donation of 50,000 magnified reading glasses, which was then distributed to help those with vision needs.
Unfortunately, a significant portion of New York’s population has been neglecting vision care, mainly due to the high costs associated with eye exams and corrective measures such as eyeglasses. In this light, the New York City Council recently approved a bill that seeks to provide free eye care services to nearly 1 million low-income New Yorkers. Individuals whose annual income is within 250% of the federal poverty level are considered eligible for this program. Although the program cannot cover all vision-related treatments, the eye exams will at least help individuals detect early signs of vision loss or defect.
The role of technology in eye health care
Aside from public health efforts, technological advancements have also been instrumental in bringing eye care services closer to those who need them. Target Optical offers eyewear and eye tests in-store, but you can also book an eye exam and find your nearest Target Optical online. These exams are performed by professionals from Independent Doctors of Optometry at or next to Target Optical in most states. Scheduling an eye exam for you and your family online can help cut down on waiting times and make the whole process more efficient and smooth. Broader telehealth platforms also contribute to helping patients save time and money through virtual visits and consultations.
Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) is also being explored in the field of ophthalmology to enhance quality and equitable eye health care. The Center for Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence and Human Health at Mount Sinai is dedicated to advancing the use of AI in the research, testing, and diagnosis of several eye conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. This AI-based patient care can aid in early detection and intervention to prevent vision loss and address eye disease risk factors such as heart attack and stroke.
The efforts mentioned above collectively help in promoting eye health and expanding care services to all residents of New York, whether they experience vision problems or simply need routine eye exams. Beyond these existing programs, there must also be investments in strengthening the eye health workforce so that optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other health professionals can meet the increasing vision needs of the population.
