Low Vision Services

Nearly 14 million, or one out of every 20 Americans, has low vision. Yet unfortunately, this often goes untreated, simply because vision loss might be accepted as a "normal" part of aging. The clinical staff at St. Luke's is dedicated to enhancing quality of life by providing patients with solutions to individual vision problems. Dr. Edward J. Huggett JR., OD, PA, is a board-certified optometrist who has focused his practice on low vision for more than 20 years. Dr. Huggett provides vision services for individuals with decreased or low vision at St. Luke's Tarpon Springs and Tampa offices.

What is Low Vision?

Eyesight that cannot be corrected by ordinary glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery is called low vision. At St. Luke's, much can be done to maximize remaining vision and improve quality of life.

Patients meeting any of the following criteria may benefit from a visit to St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute's Low Vision Clinic:

• Patients with vision which cannot be refracted or improved to 20/40, or better, with standard glasses
• Patients with Visual Field constriction
• Patients who experience double vision
• Patients suffering from contrast or glare issues
• Patients who have been told "nothing more can be done," yet still have low vision.

Functional Difficulties due to vision loss

• Reading & writing

• Identifying medications
• Moving around or driving safely
• Household activities
• Obtaining or maintaining a job
• Feelings of sadness

Types of Diseases

• Macular Degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic Retinopathy
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP, albinism and other genetic disorders)
• Neurological field loss (e.g. Stroke, Hemianopsia or Quadranopsia)
• Eye or head injuries

How we can help?

Dr. Huggett and St. Luke's Low Vision Clinic may be able to help patients maximize their remaining vision. Our highly specialized low vision testing detects the location of any remaining sight within the eye. These tests are typically more extensive than those offered by standard eye health and refractive exams commonly performed by primary care optometrists and ophthalmologists. Once complete, each patient's individual lifestyle goals are considered and unique combinations of personally prescribed rehabilitation options are offered. These options may include high-powered glasses, prisms, vision therapy, contrast enhancers, support groups, magnifiers, occupational therapy and various other community resources.

If you or a loved one might benefit from St. Luke's low vision services, please call (727) 938-2020 for an appointment.

Please note, that in order to maximize our low vision services, we have found that it is best to have a family member or caretaker attend the initial visit, if possible. (Medicare and most insurance cover low vision services, but not devices).

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