LITTLE CURRENT—The new-and-improved Eye Van has recently completed its 2019 tour of Northern Ontario communities, offering vital eye care services to underserved communities as part of CNIB Foundation’s mandate.
“Everyone is extremely impressed that we built a fully accessible medical unit that can provide great patient care,” said Eye Van general manager Lisa O’Bonsawin, who spoke with The Expositor at its Little Current stop last week. The crews travelled around Manitoulin Island between October 6 and 25.
“Even the colours make a difference,” she said. “(Our patients) really liked the new layout and increased privacy they have.”
The Expositor first reported on the details of the new Mobile Medical Eye Care Unit (commonly called Ivan the Eye Van) in March of this year. It was unveiled at a conference last November.
The new van comes with improved technology and networking services so doctors can view test results in real time, leading to faster diagnoses.
The new truck uses a full 53-foot trailer (up from the previous van’s 48-foot length) and its clinic space is all on one level inside. Previously, there was a “gooseneck” area where patients had to step up to a room inside in order to receive care.
While many patients will use stairs to get up to the trailer level, there is also a lift for wheelchairs and walkers. The previous Eye Van also had a lift, but this one is substantially larger and can accommodate bigger chairs as a result.
There is bright LED lighting inside and the patient care zones feature enhanced privacy. All of the medical equipment on board is also new.
This is the fifth Eye Van since the Prevention of Blindness program began in 1972 in partnership with CNIB, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. The past trailer was in service for 15 years.
Nurses, doctors and optometrists can refer patients to the Eye Van when it makes an annual stop in their home community. The van only accepts patients on a referral basis and offers vision exams, treatment for various eye conditions, minor surgeries and general information about eye health and care.
The van team also partners with diabetes programs in all areas to help create a more holistic healthcare approach to the service.
The new Eye Van is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. The crew receives substantial support from Manitoulin Transport, both for storage of the unit in the off-season and providing any required assistance during its run.
Manitoulin has long been the last stop on the Eye Van’s figure-eight route throughout Northern Ontario before it returns to its home base near Sudbury.
“It’s always so rewarding. The people and partnerships with the healthcare community are great, we have amazing volunteers and service clubs who partner with us, and even the patients will tell us incredible stories. It’s a great way to end our busy year,” said Ms. O’Bonsawin.
She concluded by saying the new accessibility components of the van are a thrilling addition.
“Everyone can access the Eye Van,” she said.
