In recognition of National Eye Exam Month, Teri Helenese, Virgin Islands director, State-Federal Relations and Washington representative, has partnered with eye care specialists in the Territory to offer discounted eye exams throughout August, according to a press release.
This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and ensure that residents have access to essential eye care services.
Beginning Thursday, Plessen Ophthalmology and Sterling Optical will provide eye exams at reduced costs to help incentivize Virgin Islanders to address their eye care needs without delay, stated the release.
“We are thrilled to unveil this collaboration, which makes vital eye care more accessible to our community,” said Helenese. “Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting vision problems early and maintaining overall eye health. By offering these discounts, we hope to encourage more people to prioritize their eye health.”
Helenese explained that many residents of the Virgin Islands often forgo essential eye examinations due to budgetary restraints. The discounted price of eye exams throughout August can help to alleviate this financial burden and encourage more individuals to seek eye care before problems arise, according to the release.
Ophthalmologists recommend periodic eye exams every two-four years from the ages of 40 to 65, and every one-two years after the age of 65, the release stated.
At Plessen Ophthalmology, which serves patients in both the St. Croix and St. Thomas-St. John districts, patients without insurance can get a basic eye exam for $50. Every Virgin Islander, including patients with diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, or unexplained vision loss, is encouraged to come in for an examination that will cost very little if insurance coverage is applied. Undocumented patients are also welcome at the practice. Sterling Optical, with locations in St. Croix and St. Thomas, has agreed to offer comprehensive eye exams at a discounted rate of $50, a 20 percent discount off the regular cost of $65, stated the release.
According to Helenese, the goal is not only to help improve vision but also to reduce health care costs in the long run as undiagnosed and untreated eye conditions can lead to more severe health problems, resulting in higher medical expenses in the future. Early detection through regular eye exams can prevent such complications, ultimately saving costs for both individuals and the healthcare system.
Moreover, eye exams can also reveal underlying health issues such as diabetes and hypertension, and high cholesterol. These conditions often go unnoticed until they manifest through eye symptoms, the release stated.
According to the release, committed to supporting the local community beyond eye care, Sterling Optical also offers the Adams-Mahepath Scholarships to college-bound graduating high school seniors from the Territory. Established in 2002, the scholarship fund has awarded more than half a million dollars in financial support to more than 200 students, allowing them to pursue their higher education dreams.
“Improving the health and wellbeing of our community in multiple areas of their lives is one of my highest priorities,” added Helenese. “I am deeply grateful to our local partners who are making it easier for residents to take proactive steps in managing their eye health. We hope to see many community members take advantage of this opportunity during National Eye Exam Month.”
National Eye Exam Month runs from August 1-31. Residents are encouraged to contact Plessen Ophthalmology and Sterling Optical directly to schedule their eye exams. Appointments are required, and availability may vary.
