QUESTION:
My sister is down syndrome with glaucoma. She has insurance. I have money to do what ever i must do for her to see again
M**** via Submit Form
ANSWER:
Dear M****,
I am sorry to hear of your sister’s condition. How old is she and at what age did she develop glaucoma? I ask as childhood glaucomas can be very different from adult glaucomas. My practice focuses on adult-only glaucomas. If her glaucoma began in childhood then I would be happy to refer you to a colleague who would be better able to care for her eye condition.
With regard to insurance, I do not participate with any insurance panels. However, my colleague, Dr. Jeffrey Hong who practices both in my office and in Pasadena is contracted with a number of PPO insurances. If you prefer her exams, testing, and treatments to be covered by insurance then he might be a better choice for her care. I’m certain that either I, Dr. Hong, or one of my recommended glaucoma specialist colleagues would be available to care for your sister. Once an examination and testing have been performed appropriate treatment options can be discussed.
You mentioned that you are willing to do whatever you must in order “for her to see again”. I have no doubt your sister is fortunate to have a brother like you. If her vision loss is from glaucoma, however, then I do not wish for you to go out of your way (both in distance, time, and funds) with the hope for improvement in vision. Neither I, Dr. Hong, nor my other local colleagues have any unique treatment that can restore vision lost from glaucoma. If, on the other hand, her vision has been lost due to cataracts or other reversible disease then we may have something to offer beyond what you have found elsewhere. My hope, of course, is that there is something other than glaucoma that is contributing to her lost vision.
I’ve copied my nurse, Ana, on this email. She can assist you in scheduling a consultation with me, Dr. Hong, or another colleague of mine.
Warm regards,
David Richardson, MD
Patient-Focused Ophthalmologist
San Marino Eye
2020 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108
626.289.7856
Patient-Focused Websites:
New-Glaucoma-Treatments.com
About-Eyes.com
Posted in: Glaucoma, Other Concerns