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Joint Base Andrews News

NEWS | Nov. 28, 2017

11th MDG provides NCR eye services

By Kathleen Tyler 11th Medical Support Squadron

The month of October is a time we focus on vision impairments and blindness and an appropriate time to recognize the 11th Medical Group Warfighter Eye Center team. They routinely provide state of the art corrective laser eye surgery for eligible active duty members from all over the world, in addition to performing the advanced eye surgeries.

 

The WEC team performed the first corneal crosslinking procedure in the Air Force for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and established the WEC as the first referral center for crosslinking, stabilizing the vision of 12 airmen. Furthermore, the WEC was the first military treatment facility in the National Capital Region to successfully perform a Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK), a partial-thickness corneal transplant procedure.

 

The WEC has also enrolled patients in an FDA trial to test new advanced edge technology for refractive surgery called the military iDesign PRK Study (MIPS).  

 

The essence of care delivered throughout Malcolm Grow can be found in the caring and compassion displayed by the eye care professionals. Along with providing comprehensive eye care, the 11 MDG Ophthalmology team helped plan, coordinate, and inspire 19 members of the clinic to complete a three-day, 50 mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, with proceeds donated to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Wounded Warrior Foundation.

 

“Our success stems from the talent, enthusiasm and compassion our people who put the patient first, 365 days a year, said Maj (Dr.) William Gensheimer, 11th MDG ophthalmologist.  “Team work is very important to our goal of providing patients with the best care possible.”