Marianas Eye Institute has taken its mission statement-“Excellence with Love”-one step further with the introduction of its Kindness to Prevent Blindness program. This program helps underprivileged individuals that do not have the money to get the eye care they need and was developed out of the desire to reach individuals in need of eye care.
Marianas Eye Institute's CEO, Russ Quinn, states, “We pride ourselves in our outreach programs. In the past we have helped diabetic patients that were unable to pay for the needed care that comes from diabetic retinopathy. We wanted a program that could reach more people during these hard financial times. It's our way of giving back to the community.”
The staff of Marianas Eye Institute opens their hearts and their busy eye clinic to those who need care but cannot afford it. “We wanted to put together a program that doesn't treat people as charity cases. We realize that people need a hand, not a handout,” said Quinn.
For this reason, everyone availing of the Kindness to Prevent Blindness program is required to make some payment-any payment. “We got the idea from a similar program in clinic in a small town with a depressed economy, and realized the program would be perfect for our community, and for our desire to give back.”
Quinn said all the payments collected from these “Kindness” patients will be given to a charitable organization in the community.
“Instead of receiving charity, these patients are giving to a charity in this way, and we like the way that feels for everyone,” explained Quinn. “As the recipient of these contributions, we've chosen Guma Esperanza-The House of Hope.”
Marianas Eye Institute has set aside one appointment slot each day for a “Kindness to Prevent Blindness” patient. Individuals must call to make an appointment, and must identify themselves as wanting to participate in the program.
“Many times, clinics hold special days for such patients, which is wonderful, but we felt it was more dignified to accommodate these patients during our regular clinic schedule,” said Quinn.
Dr. David Khorram, the co‐founder of Marianas Eye Institute, and the director of its Center for Advanced Diabetic Eye Care, explained that the clinic is committed to help these patients with whatever eye problems they have.
“Whether people need just an exam, or even if they need glasses, or laser or even extensive testing or cataract surgery, we'll provide all of it, and only ask that the Kindness to Prevent Blindness patients pay whatever they can afford.”
Marianas Eye Institute, which is also home to the Center for Advanced Diabetic Eye care, is located across the street from the 13 Fishermen's Monument on Beach Road in Garapan. Call 235‐9090 for an appointment. Detailed information regarding the clinic and its doctors is available at www.MarianasEye.com. (PR)
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