North Carolina Lions, Inc. receive matching grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation for a $134,466 project upgrade of equipment for UNC Eye-Chapel Hill. LCI is providing $67,233.

The new equipment will replace the current ERG system. The new equipment will speed up time taken for the patient and will help diagnose patients with cone dystrophy or retinitis pigmentosa. The new system will include  opportunities to learn and share knowledge.

According to grant request, UNC Eye stated that many ambiguous cases of various genetic eye diseases leave physicians and patients uncertain as to what is happening to their vision.  Physicians benefit from ERG’s as they provide clarification of what is happening in the retina through detailed measurements of the retina (either full or partial).  Patients with genetic eye diseases such as Retinitis Pigmentosa, Usher Syndrome, Macular holes, Myopia and Macular Dystrophy can have an improved diagnosis and care plan established with these details.

Other information from the request include: In order to meet the predicted high demand of skilled ophthalmologists for future generations, UNC Eye is committed to training highly skilled residents and fellows while also providing patient care to people of all socioeconomic levels in North Carolina.  One of the best ways for residents to learn is to be able to see what the faculty member sees as he/she is assessing , diagnosing and treating various eye diseases.  High quality resident education directly relates to high quality future patient care.

UNC Eye is committed to gaining a better understanding of disease processes and to share that knowledge with the university and medical communities.  A microscope with a digital camera will enable the faculty to provide quality photos to research publications and to more easily share the knowledge.           

Geographical area and communities that will be served, including socioeconomic data. North Carolina and surrounding states.  Patients served by UNC Eye represented approximately 849 different Zip Codes zones during the 12 month period.  This population represents a very diverse group of patients.  UNC Eye treats all patients regardless of ability to pay and follows a generous Financial Assistance Program.  Current patient population demographics include over $1.5 million in pure charity care and over 50% Medicare/Medicaid population who survive on fixed or limited incomes.  This high volume makes the role of philanthropic support vital to our ability to serve our patients and accomplish our mission.