May 5, 2008

• Award recognizes community health contributions

• UAB optometry students provide comprehensive care at clinics

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Community Eye Care (CEC) program of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Optometry has been honored by the Jefferson County Department of Health. The county's Community Partner Award recognizes individuals, businesses and organizations that have made significant contributions to the health and well-being of the community.

The program was recognized for providing vision screenings and comprehensive eye care services at the county's health centers in Bessemer, Ensley and Northern Birmingham. Comprehensive eye care includes visual acuity tests, eyeglass prescriptions and testing for glaucoma and other eye conditions.

"Low vision and blindness affects thousands of Alabamians, and age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy are among the most common impairments," said CEC program manager Jennifer Banks. The earlier optometrists catch these conditions, the better the treatment options.

"Previously, patients were not able to receive comprehensive eye care at the county health centers. Now we are able to provide these services to all Birmingham area residents, regardless of age or health conditions," Banks said.

Each week UAB School of Optometry students under optometrist supervision rotate among the three health centers served by the program. The CEC program serves about 600 patients a year at the three sites. Additionally, the UAB program provides eye care services at the United Cerebral Palsy Center of Greater Birmingham, health fairs and at various preschools, elementary and middle schools throughout Jefferson County.