Ophthalmic Technician students provide free eye exams at Capuchin Soup Kitchen

In July, Dr. Kathy Campbell, Program Director for the HFC Ophthalmic Technician Program (OPT), and Karen Ross, Clinical Coordinator for the OPT, traveled with OPT students to volunteer their time with the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MiSEPS) at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen on Conner St. in Detroit, providing free eye exams for patrons.

The students performed the preliminary examination work-ups, while the physicians completed the retinal examination. More than 50 patients were seen in one day.

It was great learning experience for the students, because many patients had serious eye conditions such as glaucoma and advanced cataracts, which needed immediate medical attention. One patient was provided transportation vouchers to get him to the hospital for immediate treatment for severe glaucoma.

“I think this group of patients needed the most medical attention I have ever seen from all of our volunteer events in five years,” said Campbell. “This was a great visit, and the students were able to experience how important our role is in the community.”