Deployed preventative health series: Look sharp with eye care

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Carlos Trevino | Lt. Col. Timothy Landis, an optometrist at the 379th Expeditionary Medical Operations Squadron, conducts an eye exam on Staff Sgt. Leonae Franklin, a dental technician at 379th EMDOS, Aug. 2, 2016, at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. An eye exam at the optometry clinic can identify vision problems; the clinic can then develop and implement an eye care plan to correct any issues. (U.S. Air Force photo/Technical Sgt. Carlos J. Treviño/Released)  

AL UDEID AIR BASE, QATAR

08.22.2016

Story by Tech. Sgt. Carlos Trevino 

379th Air Expeditionary Wing

“We have seen a lot of contact lens abuse cases in the past few weeks, like wearing them too long or sleeping in them in this environment,” said Staff Sgt. Andrew P. Heath, an ophthalmic technician at the 379th Expeditionary Medical Operations Squadron.

To prevent vision issues from inappropriate or unauthorized wear of contact lenses, Air Force members deployed here need a waiver from the optometry clinic to wear contacts.

According to Heath, the clinic here can also update a patient’s vision prescription, test for glaucoma, and order and repair government-issued glasses.

With the month of August designated as Preventive Health Month by the Air Force Medical Service, the deployed preventative health series examines the health and vitality of the nation’s warfighters.

In addition to Preventive Health Month, the Center for Disease Control designated August 22-26 as Contact Lens Health Week as well.

For more information about eye health and obtaining a contact lens waiver, contact the optometry clinic at 455-5244.

• Date Taken: 08.22.2016
• Date Posted: 08.22.2016 07:37
• Story ID: 207841
• Location: AL UDEID AIR BASE, QA