Ocular Findings and Referral Rates From a Community-Based Eye Clinic in New York City: The Kress Vision Program for Uninsured New Yorkers.

Overview

Vision loss in high-risk populations may be prevented in many cases with the early detection and management of eye diseases. The Kress Vision Program (KVP) is a free-of-charge community-based vision screening, referral, and treatment program for uninsured New Yorkers. This retrospective analysis describes the prevalence of ocular diseases among participants seen at the KVP, as well as the referral rates, treatment, and follow-up at an academic ophthalmology department. From October 2020-January 2023, 26 community-based organizations (CBOs) referred 887 participants, and 618 (69.7%) were screened; participants were predominantly female (70.9%) and Hispanic (63.9%), and had an income less than 100% of the federal poverty level (74.8%). Of 305 (49.4%) patients referred for further care, 238 (78%) attended their appointment. Common referrals included glaucoma suspect (85) or needing a comprehensive (61), retinal (76), or cataract evaluation (35). By establishing relationships with CBOs, the KVP improves eye care utilization in a high-risk population, serving as an effective model for a free vision screening and treatment program.