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Funds available for diabetics
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Posted on Apr 19 2005
If you have diabetes and finances are keeping you from getting the eye care you need, Marianas Eye Institute has identified funding to help you.
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the CNMI. An eye exam every year can help prevent blindness.
“Most people with diabetes lose their vision simply because they miss their yearly exams and don’t come in until their eye problems are bad,” said Dr. Mark Robertson of Marianas Eye Institute.
Statistics show that in 2004, only 300 of the 3,000 diabetics in the CNMI received an eye exam.
“We don’t want financial concerns to keep you from getting your eye exam. So we have identified funding and have created the Eye Foundation Fund,” explained Flor Racoma, chief accountant at Marianas Eye Institute. “If you have diabetes and cannot afford to pay for your eye care, the Eye Foundation Fund will help. It’s that simple. It is part of our commitment to making sure all diabetics get their eye exam every year.”
Funding is limited, and Marianas Eye Institute is trying to provide some help to as many people as possible who need financial assistance. Diabetics are encouraged to come in to avail of the funds.
“Diabetes is our top priority for 2005. We are putting our emphasis in two areas: first, giving the world-class care that we have built our reputation on; and second, providing this high quality care at affordable prices,” said Dr. David Khorram, the ophthalmologist and director of Marianas Eye Institute. “This funding is another step to ensure that everyone has access to care.”
Marianas Eye Institute said it wants 2005 to be the year that everyone with diabetes gets the eye exam they need. “We are working to beat diabetic eye disease. If you need funds, we can help. If you need a ride, just give us a call and we’ll pick you up. It’s that important,” Khorram stressed.
Marianas Eye Institute provides total eye care for the family, including express glasses, contact lenses, medicine, surgery, and laser. Appointments can be made by calling 235-9090, or by stopping at the office on Beach Road in Garapan, across the 13 Fishermen Monument. (PR)
