Daylong event gives Rocky Mountain University College of Optometric Medicine students valuable experience
Salt Lake City— More than 50 incarcerated individuals received free eye exams and glasses prescriptions during a daylong event held at the Utah State Correctional Facility. Thanks to the partnership of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) this event helped reduce the backlog of individuals awaiting eye exams.
The exams were performed by eight optometric physician students and two faculty members from the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Each diagnosis was reviewed and approved by faculty, who are licensed optometric physicians. Along with the exams, incarcerated individuals who needed corrective lenses were allowed to select a new pair of glasses.
“At Rocky Mountain University, we believe access to healthcare is a fundamental right—regardless of circumstance,” Dr. Adam Hickenbotham, dean of RMU’s College of Optometric Medicine, said. “This partnership with the Utah State Correctional Facility not only helps meet a critical need for eye care, but also provides our students with meaningful, hands-on experience that reinforces the importance of compassion and service in healthcare.”
Working with Rocky Mountain University creates an important public-private partnership that provides a benefit for both organizations. Success of the project also requires collaboration with the Department of Corrections for security reasons.
“We are incredibly thankful for the vital support of the students and faculty at Rocky Mountain University as well as our partners with the Utah Department of Corrections for making this event happen,” said state executive medical director Dr. Stacey Bank. “Their collaborative work directly contributes to our goal of delivering safe and effective integrated healthcare to the individuals we serve.”
In the coming months Rocky Mountain University students will continue to conduct exams at the prison monthly.
About Rocky Mountain University
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) is an exclusive graduate healthcare education institution accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Founded in 1998 and located in Provo, Utah, RMU offers high-quality and evidence-based master’s and doctoral degree programs in various healthcare specialties with a diverse student body and faculty. Learn more at rm.edu.
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