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Texans In Need

Meeting the Need

Since 1981, Houston Eye Associates Foundation’s nonprofit work addresses these needs through the collaborative efforts of volunteer physicians and their teams, donated and discounted medical services and medications, and private philanthropic contributions.

While Foundation patients have a variety of, and sometimes multiple vision needs, most require treatment for cataracts (36%), followed by retina care (20%). Physician volunteerism allows the Foundation to offer treatment in most specialties and for all ages. Private contributions allow the Foundation to cover the reduced costs of patient medications, surgery centers, equipment, and ancillary services. These combined efforts help to assure uninsured and underinsured Texans receive needed vision care at no cost.

Vision Needs in Texas

  • More than 20% of Texans are uninsured – twice the national average.
  • Each year, vision issues cost Texans $711M in lost or reduced wages.
  • 650,000 Texans report blindness or severe reading issues – even with glasses.
  • 49% of individuals 65 years+ with severe vision impairment reported having a fall in the past year.
  • 34% of Texans have been diagnosed with cataracts and 17% are untreated.
  • 4.8% of Texans have been diagnosed with retina issues that threaten their vision.
  • People with vision issues are 33% more likely to have mobility issues.
  • 25% of Houston-area students need glasses and do not have them.

Houston Eye Associates Foundation is a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization committed to preserving and restoring the sight of those in need. For more information, please contact heaf@houstoneye.com or (713) 558-8740.

7155 Old Katy Road, Suite S110, Houston, Texas 77024