Orchid Health and Casey Eye Institute team up to bring vision and hope to rural Oregon

RAINBOW: “My vision has deteriorated so quickly, and without insurance coverage for vision care, I felt lost and worried about my future,” according to Jane, a McKenzie River resident. Her relief was palpable after receiving essential vision care at a mobile clinic hosted by Casey Eye Institute and Orchid Health.

“I can’t express how grateful I am. This service was exactly what I needed, she added.

This Spring Break, Jane was among 106 individuals who benefited from the mobile vision clinics in Rainbow, Oakridge, and Elmira. The clinics, a partnership between Casey Eye Institute and Orchid Health, were a real lifeline for communities where healthcare services are often out of reach.

During the event, 81 of the participants received prescriptions for eyewear, dramatically improving their daily lives.

Volunteers, including three physicians and 17 non-physicians, dedicated a total of 137 hours, valued at $29,453.40, to provide high-quality, compassionate care.

“These clinics are about more than just eye health; they’re about restoring independence and confidence to people who’ve been struggling in silence,” according to a volunteer doctor.

“The Casey Community Outreach Program goes beyond healthcare; it’s about touching lives with the gift of sight,” said a spokesperson from Casey Eye Institute.

“Our partnership with Orchid Health allows us to extend OHSU’s exemplary standards of care directly to those who need it most,” they said. “Orchid Health, known for its commitment to exceptional local healthcare, particularly in rural areas, cherishes this collaboration.”

“Access to specialist services like these can be life-changing for our patients,” said another representative from Orchid Health. “We’re deeply grateful to the Casey Eye Institute and all the volunteers who share our commitment to community health.”

The initiative was part of a broader effort to address preventable blindness and improve quality of life through enhanced vision care, marking a significant investment back into the community.