Media release: Free eye tests at new Centre for Eye Health
Sydney is about to get a new state-of-the-art eye health centre with an unusual twist:
thanks to public generosity, all its services will be completely free of charge.
Thousands of people at risk of developing eye diseases are expected to attend the Centre
for Eye Health (CFEH) every year at the Kensington campus of the University of New South
Wales, a joint initiative between the university and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
The centre will be opened officially on Wednesday 4 November by the Governor of NSW,
Professor Marie Bashir AC, CVO. It aims to reduce preventable blindness and vision
impairment by early detection of eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and
diabetic retinopathy.
Guide Dogs plans to spend $40 million over 10 years to provide a comprehensive range of
world-class eye imaging and vision diagnosis services at no charge to anyone referred there
by a general practitioner, ophthalmologist or optometrist.
Most irreversible vision loss due to eye disease can be managed and treated if detected
early, says CFEH director Professor Michael Kalloniatis. Half of all vision impairment is
correctable and one quarter is preventable if diagnosed and managed early.
"For the first time in Australia, the best diagnostic equipment will be readily available under
one roof and at no cost to anyone at risk of developing eye disease," says Professor
Kalloniatis.
"Waiting lists are up to two years at many public hospitals, so people will now be able to
access vision assessments much sooner. As well, they won't have to visit different centres
for different tests – we have everything that's needed here."
Among the $2.5 million worth of equipment is Australia's first Optomap wide-field fundus
photographic instrument, which quickly and painlessly takes multi-dimensional images of
the back of the eye and optic nerve - without the need for eye-drops or invasive procedures.
The centre will also serve as a teaching facility for UNSW’s School of Optometry and Vision
Science and help support a wide range of vision research and education at the university.
Media contact:
UNSW - Bob Beale 0411 705 435 bbeale@unsw.edu.au
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