Curbside Glaucoma Testing
Now Offered Outside the DOC

A group of people on a sidewalk  Description automatically generatedMore than three million Americans are living with glaucoma, a blinding eye disease usually associated with increased intraocular pressure. Controlling glaucoma and preventing irreversible vision loss necessitates periodic eye exams to monitor a patient's eye pressure. 

COVID-19 has created a barrier to care for those who are at a higher risk for complications of COVID-related disease.

Older patients and those living with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity may be foregoing the eye exams that are vital to preserving vision. 

That's why the Glaucoma Division of the Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS) at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and University Hospital has established a program to allow for curbside eye pressure checks for existing patients.

This program, directed by NJMS assistant professors of ophthalmology and visual science Drs. Miriam Habiel and Albert Khouri, allows patients with glaucoma to get their vision and eye pressure checked from the comfort and security of their car, even in the midst of the pandemic.

Screenings are performed in front of the Doctors Office Building (DOC) at 90 Bergen Street in Newark. Each screening takes fewer than 5 minutes. The results of the screening and a plan of care are then communicated to the patient via an e-heath visit conducted by one of our glaucoma specialists.

By increasing access to care, these screenings have had a significantly positive impact on local patients. Curbside screenings enable providers to make critical adjustments to medical regimens and initiate treatments that can preserve a patient's vision. Twenty patients have received a screening so far. For more information, please contact the IOVS at 973-972-2065.