Free comprehensive eye care now available to community | Community Spirit

According to research by RWJ Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, 18 percent of adults under 65 in Richland County and 19 percent in Fairfield County are uninsured. Being uninsured also correlates with vision insurance, because most of those individuals also typically don’t have vision insurance.

During last year’s SC Mission 2011, there were many individuals identified who needed help with vision services. In response to that need, free comprehensive eye care now is offered to qualifying patients at the Midlands Eye Care Clinic. The clinic, which opened February 7, is located at the Richland County Health Department, 2000 Hampton St., second floor.

Patients are seen on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, from noon to 5 p.m. Services include eye and vision exams, prescriptions and eyeglasses.

The clinic, which is staffed by volunteer optometric physicians, is open to individuals 18 years old and older living in Richland and Fairfield counties. Eligible patients must not have vision insurance and show proof of low-income status. Patients are seen by appointment only.

For appointments and to see if you qualify, call 803-576-2847.