A free screening event in Worcester provided community members with the opportunity to get checked for skin cancer and eye exams. Doctors from UMass Memorial’s dermatology department conducted the screenings, while ophthalmologists from the same institution offered eye exams to visitors. The event was coordinated with the help of students from UMass Chan Medical School.
During the eye exams, doctors dilated patients’ pupils to examine their optic nerve, macula, and retina to ensure good vision and detect any potential eye conditions early on. Dr. Benjamin Botsford, an ophthalmologist, emphasized the importance of catching eye conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy early to prevent serious vision issues.
UMass Chan fourth-year student Stephanie Choi highlighted the diversity of patients at the event, including those with visual impairments, wheelchair users, and individuals from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The event was described as a wonderful opportunity to provide care to a wide range of patients.
Dermatologist Dr. Viji Daniel stressed the importance of early detection in treating skin cancers, emphasizing the need for regular skin checks by primary care doctors and dermatologists. Over 100 people signed up for the clinic, and there were also walk-ins welcomed at the event.