To Commemorate Rare Disease Day and Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, University Eye Center Emphasizes Renowned Research and Innovation in Vision Care
NEW YORK, NY February 27, 2020 — In recognition of February’s Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month and Rare Disease Day, SUNY College of Optometry is highlighting the Advanced Care Clinic at the University Eye Center and world-renowned research taking place at SUNY College of Optometry.
The Eye Center’s ocular disease specialists perform unique diagnostic testing, evaluation, and care for a host of rare retinal disorders for which there are no cures.
“With rare diseases, there is a 3- to 5-year average delay between the onset of symptoms and a diagnosis,” said Dr. Sherry Bass. “Here at University Eye Center we have a host of diagnostic devices that are not often found in your typical eye doctor’s office, including free genetic testing, and faculty with the experience and knowledge to make an accurate diagnosis. Even for the diseases without a current cure or treatment, there is great comfort for patients in having a diagnosis.”
Once diagnosed with a rare disease, patients can access support services, qualify for enhanced medical benefits, and register for clinical trials that help pave the way to eventual treatments, if not cures.
SUNY Optometry also announced Jennifer Gould, OD, MS, Chief of Advanced Care, will lead the school’s participation in a study on genetic therapy for a rare mutation of macular degeneration. The research is part of a shift in eye care to customized therapies and recommended treatments based on a person’s genes.
These efforts are among the many underway at the institution, highlighted as part of SUNY Optometry’s 2020: Year of Vision, focused on the importance of vision and eye care to overall health.
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About SUNY Optometry
Founded in 1971 and located in New York City, the State University of New York College of Optometry is a leader in education, research and patient care, offering the Doctor of Optometry degree as well as MS and PhD degrees in vision science. The College conducts a robust program of basic, translational and clinical research and has 65 affiliated clinical training sites. SUNY Optometry is regionally accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools; its four-year professional degree program and residency programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association. All classrooms, research facilities and the University Eye Center, which is one of the largest optometric outpatient facilities in the nation, are located on 42nd Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in midtown Manhattan.
SUNY College of Optometry, communications@sunyopt.edu 212-938-5600