The International Lions Club donated a Welch Allyn 700 RetinaVue retinal camera to NYC Health + Hospital/Queens on Feb. 17. The device will benefit the diabetic patients that the hospital serves.
Thanks to this camera, retinopathy specialists will be able to conduct five-minute screenings before the results are analyzed and the patient is referred to an ophthalmologist (vision doctor). Additionally, patients will receive reports that include specific images of the eye and recommendations as to what actions they should take next.
Diabetes and the conditions that accompany it are a common occurrence among those living in the areas of Queens located near one of the NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens locations. This includes Jamaica, Hollis, South Ozone Park and Richmond Hill. Approximately 95% of vision loss resulting from diabetic retinopathy is preventable through early detection. This new device will immensely aid these hospitals in being able to detect these effects early and take action quickly.
The International Lions Club is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that provides valuable time and resources toward improving communities throughout the world. There are around 50,000 clubs around the world, with chapters found in more than 200 countries. The Richmond Hill-Ozone Park chapter has established a partnership with Queens Hospital to tackle the ongoing challenges posed by diabetes, specifically with respect to vision loss.
