LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The American Macular Degeneration Foundation is pleased to provide this listing as a service to our visitors. However, visitors are advised that inclusion on this listing does not imply endorsement by the AMDF. It is intended as a reference source only. Eye Research Hospitals and/or Treatment Centers not currently listed are welcome to write to the AMDF on their letterhead to request their inclusion on the listing. In addition, Eye Research Hospitals and/or Treatment Centers listed are requested to notify the AMDF in writing if there are any errors needing correction in their listing.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Information contained within this Web site is intended solely for educational purposes and is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Always seek the advice of your physician or other health care provider for any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. By using this Web site, you agree to this Medical Disclaimer.
DEFINITIONS OF
EYE CARE PROFESSIONALS
OPHTHALMOLOGIST: a doctor of medicine specializing in ophthalmology, the branch of medical science dealing with anatomy, functions and diseases of the eye.
OPTOMETRIST: Doctors of Optometry are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures, as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. They examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders; systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes; and vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Optometrists also do testing to determine the patient's ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, and to judge depth, and see colors accurately. They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy, and medicines to treat eye diseases.
OPTICIAN: a person who makes or sells glasses for remedying defects of vision in accordance with the prescriptions of the ophthalmologist or optometrist.
HOW TO FIND AN EYE CARE PROFESSIONAL
Ask friends and family members about which eye care professional they use.
Ask your personal physician for the names of local eye care specialists.
Telephone the department of ophthalmology or optometry at a nearby hospital, university medical center or medical school.
Contact your state or local association of ophthalmologists or optometrists. These groups (which may be called academies or societies) often have lists of eye care professionals by specialty and experience.
The American Academy of Ophthalmologists coordinates a FIND AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST on-line listing of member ophthalmologists who practice in the United States and abroad. It is designed to help the general public locate ophthalmologists within specific geographic regions. Their address is: American Academy of Ophthalmology, P.O. Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120-7424. Tel. (415) 561-8500.
Contact your insurance company or health plan. Ask if they have a list of eye care professionals that are covered by your plan.
Visit your local bookstore or library. Check on available books and journals about choosing a physician or medical treatment. Below are several examples:
Most large libraries have the reference set The ABMS Compendium of Certified Medical Professionals, which lists board-certified ophthalmologists, each with a brief biographical summary.
A Patient's Guide to Surgery, by Edward L. Bradley, M.D., Consumer Reports Books, October 1994, which contains a chapter about choosing a surgeon and a hospital.
The magazine U.S. News and World Report features an article each year (usually in August) that rates hospitals in the United States. Please see the listing on our Web site.
Many state and national organizations provide financial assistance to people with vision problems. The American Macular Degeneration Foundation is providing the following as a service to our Web site visitors of possible avenues regarding financial assistance for eye care problems. Inclusion on this list does not imply endorsement by the AMDF. The AMDF also does not vouch for the accuracy of the information provided below; though the AMDF believes it to be accurate. Other organizations not currently listed below are welcome to write to the AMDF on their letterhead to request their inclusion on the list.
LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL provides financial aid to individuals for eye care through their local chapters or clubs. Most localities have Lions Clubs, though services vary from club to club. Check your telephone book for the address and telephone number of the club nearest you. Contact the national office of the Lions Clubs by telephoning (630) 571-5466.
THE MEDICINE PROGRAM will assist people to enroll in various patient assistance programs that provide prescription medicine for free to those in need. Note that patients must meet the criteria set by the specific program's sponsor. This Program is coordinated in cooperation with the patient's own physician. Contact the Program by mail at P.O. Box 4182, Poplar Bluff, MO 63902-4182 or by telephoning (517) 778-1118.
THE NATIONAL EYE CARE PROJECT is coordinated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It provides free and low-cost eye exams for Americans aged 65 and older who have not seen an ophthalmologist during the past three years. Contact the Project by telephoning 1-800-222-EYES.
VISION USA is coordinated by the American Optometric Association. It provides free eye care to uninsured, low-income workers and their families. Acceptance for the program only takes place during the month of January, though exams are provided later in the year. Contact the program by telephoning 1-800-766-4466.
