BALTIMORE — Qualified Maryland families may now apply for a comprehensive vision examination at any time during the year, rather than only in January, reports the Maryland Optometric Association (MOA) whose member doctors participate in the national VISION USA program.

The VISION USA project provides free eye exams to low-income individuals and families who may not qualify for government aid or private health-care assistance. Now a year-round program, the state of Maryland has taken this a step further. With funding from the MOA, the doctors are also able to provide complimentary corrective eye-wear to any participant that requires it. To receive these free vision services, individuals must:

• Be working or part of a household with one member working at least part time.
• Have no insurance that covers eye examinations.
• Have an income below an established level based on household size.
• Have not had an eye examination in the past 24 months.
• If an individual or family is eligible they will be matched with a volunteer doctor in their area.
  

Last year more than 100 participating members of the MOA provided over 400 low-income, working people in Maryland with free and comprehensive eye
examinations. Nine out of every 100 had eye health conditions and nearly three out of four needed a new eyeglass prescription.

Dr. Jeanette Bonsack, the statewide coordinator for VISION USA said, "Good vision is important at any age. Unfortunately, thousands of people are unable to get the care they need, even though a family member works, because they are not eligible for government support. Some also have eye health conditions that could cause vision loss if left untreated."

VISION USA is a 12-year-old program developed by doctors of optometry who are members of the American Optometric Association. This national, charitable program has served more than 300,000 low-income working Americans and hopes to serve many more by accepting applications year-round. Interested persons may apply by one of three methods:

• Visit the Web site: www.aoa.org/visionusa.
• Write to: VISION USA, 243 North Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141.
• Call: 1-800-766-4466, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., CST, Monday through Friday.
  Administrative costs for VISION USA are funded by an exclusive grant from VSP, the nation's largest provider of eye care wellness benefits.
  

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