Armstrong County now has two new retinal imaging cameras thanks to a donation by the Richard G. and Barbara A. Snyder General Charity Fund. The cameras are part of the Eyes on Wheels Diabetic Retinopathy Screening (DRS) Program, which uses web-connected retinal cameras in primary care clinics and community organizations to expand access to screening.
“The Snyder family, beginning with Chuck and Luella Snyder and continuing today through Richard, Sally, and Dennis Snyder, has long demonstrated a deep commitment to their community and a strong belief in the importance of preserving sight,” said Lawton Snyder (no relation), CEO of the Eye & Ear Foundation. “It is no surprise that they chose to support the installation of two retinal imaging cameras in Armstrong County, helping to prevent avoidable vision loss for people living with diabetes.”
Richard Snyder was motivated to expand access to this technology and said that “using this state-of-the-art equipment would help increase awareness of different problems the eyes have.”
This innovative model of placing retinal imaging cameras in rural and underserved communities was pioneered by Dr. Jake Waxman. Through the support of generous partners like the Snyder family, the Eye & Ear Foundation has helped facilitate the installation of dozens of these cameras throughout western Pennsylvania and beyond.
“Every new camera represents an opportunity to detect retinal disease earlier, connect patients with needed care, and ultimately preserve vision,” Lawton Snyder said. “We are thrilled to see these additional cameras being installed because we know they will help ensure that vital retinal screenings do not fall through the cracks for individuals who might otherwise go without this important aspect of their health care.”
One camera will be used at the endocrinology clinic at Armstrong County Memorial Hospital and the other will be rotated around to various PCP locations throughout Armstrong County on a quarterly basis.