Ocular Disease and Low Vision Service

Do you have glaucoma or diabetes?  Do you have family members (grandparents, parents, siblings) that have glaucoma or diabetes?  Did you know that patients with glaucoma or diabetic eye disease do not have symptoms until their vision begins to noticeably deteriorate?  But, if caught early, these diseases can be treated, preventing any loss of vision.  The Ocular Disease and Low Vision Service provides care to people who have, or are suspected to have, eye disease. This clinical service is staffed by optometrists and ophthalmologists that specialize in eye diseases. Comprehensive care is provided for people with such conditions as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, among others.  The Ocular Disease and Low Vision Service also have devices that can assist low vision patient with activities of daily living, such as magnifiers and telescopes.

There are many tests that are available for the correct diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of eye diseases.  The Ocular Disease and Low Vision Service has the technology available such as scanning lasers, visual field testers, ultrasound, and others that will monitor the status of your eyes and vision, and help you determine your options regarding your eye disease.  Cataracts are slow to develop and can affect your activities at different times.  The doctors can evaluate the progression of your cataract(s) and provide the care you will need before and after surgery.  Glaucoma and macular degeneration needs to be closely watched to minimize the impact on your vision health. 

Low Vision rehabilitation is also offered to those who have loss of visual acuity or loss of visual field that cannot be restored through surgery or medications. There are two sites where rehabilitative care is offered. Routine care and initial evaluations are provided within the Ocular Disease and Low Vision Service. Those who require more comprehensive care may be referred to the UAB Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation. This Center is a joint program between the UAB School of Optometry and the UAB Department of Ophthalmology and is located next door at the Callahan Eye Foundation Hospital.  The director, Dr. Dawn DeCarlo, is a graduate of the UAB School of Optometry, and is nationally recognized as an expert in low vision care.