They want to increase awareness of treatments.
(Press Release) The Macula Vision Research Foundation and VisionCare Inc. have formed a partnership to benefit more than 15 million people in the U.S. with age-related macular degeneration. The goal of the partnership is to increase awareness of potential treatments for AMD, including the CentraSight treatment program, which includes the telescope implant, a device to restore central vision and improve quality of life in those with end-stage (advanced) macular degeneration.
MVRF is a leading national nonprofit focused on funding research to find a cure for macular degeneration and other retinal diseases. To reach this goal, MVRF funds scientific research projects with the hope of improving the lives of millions of people affected by visual impairment.
VisionCare is engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of proprietary implantable ophthalmic devices and technologies intended to improve vision and quality of life for individuals with untreatable retinal disorders.
The collaboration between MVRF and VisionCare is centered around MVRF’s SupportSightSM program, the national education and outreach arm of the foundation that includes three components:
- SupportSightSM seminars, which are free educational seminars in cities across the country.
- SupportSightNewsSM, MVRF’s newsletter with a circulation of more than 30,000.
- SupportSightSM resources, including a toll free number, outreach, retirement community partnerships, online and digital resources, referrals and access to disease-specific information and clinical trials.
Through the partnership, MVRF and VisionCare will raise awareness about the potential benefits of the telescope implant for patients with profound vision loss in both eyes. Recent changes in eligibility have allowed this treatment to become more available to a wider range of patients.
“We are excited to be working with the VisionCare team to link patients, caregivers and families affected by macular degeneration with the most up-to-date information and help educate them about viable opportunities in the marketplace that may help them improve their quality of life,” said Dawn Prall George, executive director of MVRF. “We place a high priority on staying connected to the people living with macular degeneration and their families and loved ones who are impacted by the daily struggle of impaired vision. They view MVRF as a reliable and trusted resource and it’s important for us to stay connected to the millions of people for whom we are working hard every day to find cure.”
Blake Michaels, president and CEO of VisionCare, said, “We chose to partner with the MVRF because of their unwavering support of the AMD community and commitment to education that broadens understanding of macular degeneration prevention, diagnosis and treatment options. We’re pleased to signal our commitment to their mission through this partnership.”