It’s called the EyeVan.
The College of Optometry at Pacific University in Oregon has unveiled a new mobile eyecare and vision clinic.
Nearly 100 supporters gathered on March 9 to celebrate the EyeVan, a converted 33-foot recreational vehicle featuring two full vision exam lanes, labs and other amenities, as the new face of the college’s community outreach efforts.
The EyeVan travels to schools, relief organizations, migrant camps and health fairs throughout Oregon and Washington. Optometry students provide comprehensive exams and other screenings to those who lack resources or access to healthcare.
Under the supervision of Pacific faculty, optometry students gain experience providing healthcare to underserved children, elderly citizens, migrant workers, disabled military veterans and others.
The new van replaces the college’s previous mobile clinic, a converted food truck that helped optometry students, faculty and staff deliver complimentary services to tens of thousands of underserved individuals since the initiative launched in 2003.
“Because the EyeVan can go to people who would not otherwise have vision care, it really is the embodiment of the Pacific University mission,” said Lesley Hallick, president of the university. “It is clearly understood by our university community that the desire to serve is the best way to teach, that it is what our students need to learn, and that service is this best environment in which they can learn. This EyeVan represents that commitment.”
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