Expanded coverage will obviously bring more patients. Among the millions of uninsured who gained coverage in 2014, many previously did not have access to eye care and have eye issues and disease that require treatment. Not only have these new patients put off treatment, but as a group they are also inherently more likely to have eye diseases than others their age, according to William Rich III, MD, Medical Director of Health Policy for the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Two thirds of the expansion group will be Hispanic or black, he said, and studies have shown that Hispanic persons have high rates of diabetic retinopathy and other eye diseases, while the black population has a higher incidence of glaucoma.[1]
As baby boomers reach 65 in the next few years there will also be an increase in eye patients inundated by the surge in older persons who will be seeking eye care under Medicare. This surge will heighten the need for practices to use integrated eye care, in which optometrists, ophthalmic assistants, and other staff support the ophthalmologist.
For many practices this means expansion of services or running the risk of hindering patient care. This is where Sunshine Opthalmic comes in. We specialize in the latest ophthalmic equipment, pre-owned and discounted instruments and supplies. With over 35 years of experience, we know what you need. Our team offers factory-trained service on most of your equipment, either in house or field service is available. We offer tune-ups and service contracts at competitive prices throughout the state of Florida. Let us assist you in supporting your ever growing needs.
References
- National Eye Institute. U.S. Latinos have high rates of developing vision loss and certain eye conditions. May 1, 2010.http://www.nei.nih.gov/news/pressreleases/050110.asp Accessed August 3, 2013.
