California Optometrists Say Restoring Medi-Cal Eyeglass Benefit Will Save Lives

(PRESS RELEASE) SACRAMENTO, CA – The California Optometric Association released the following statement from President Ronald G. Seger O.D., F.A.A.O., in response to Governor Gavin Newsom’s revised 2019 – 2020 state budget:

“Governor Gavin Newsom’s May budget revision is welcome news for millions of Californians who are counting on California to keep the life-saving promise of Medi-Cal’s eyeglass and vision aid benefit. Eye doctors welcome the governor’s recognition that the eyeglass benefit affords seniors, people with disabilities and low-income people the ability to see clearly so they can read, drive and work. California’s optometrists know well that restoring the eyeglass benefit means connecting more Californians with care that saves lives through early detection of diabetes and other chronic disease.

“As the diabetes epidemic is exploding across California, we look forward to working with the administration and the legislature to implement this preventative measure that will have a direct improvement in patients’ lives and health.”