The Bicknell Envision Vision Rehabilitation Center Doubles Reach of Low Vision Services
By Holly Herring • Sep 29, 2022
Blog Content
Kansas Residents Who Seek Low Vision Services and Live 150 Miles or Less From Envision Will Benefit from Comprehensive Services and Rehabilitation
Wichita, Kan. (Sept. 29, 2022) – The Bicknell Envision Vision Rehabilitation Center (EVRC) in Wichita has launched a new strategic initiative to bring its low vision rehabilitation service reach beyond the current 80-mile radius to 150 miles within Kansas. Currently, the EVRC is one of two comprehensive low vision rehabilitation centers in the entire state of Kansas. The need is critical to expand the reach of services to thousands of Kansans who do not have access to comprehensive low vision care.
“I am proud of our hardworking team at the Envision Vision Rehabilitation Center, and I look forward to helping more people and making a positive impact on the blind and visually impaired across Kansas,” said Stacy Fuller, Senior Director, Rehabilitation and Support Programs.
The EVRC provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary low vision rehabilitation by combining adaptive technology, training, and more to maximize a person’s visual function. The center is a CMS accredited facility and provides training by a licensed Occupational Therapist and/or Physical Therapist, a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist, and an Assistive Technology Specialist. The variety of low vision services the EVRC provides helps people with low vision achieve independence through continuing everyday activities – regardless of their ability to pay.
With limited resources and services for people who are blind or visually impaired in Kansas, many people endure anxiety and depression. This can be due to a lack of understanding of how to be independent and not being able to continue their hobbies or passions. While there are some families who can travel to seek additional help and services, there are just as many who do not have the means to travel long distances.
“It is not uncommon for adults who are seeking low vision rehabilitation services to travel 2-3 hours to the EVRC in Wichita,” said Fuller. “They get moderate exposure to various services provided by the team; however, they do not get the full benefit of what we can provide through multiple visits with comprehensive care.”
Under the new strategic initiative, patients of the EVRC from 80-150 miles away from Wichita will be able to receive follow-up visits that are tailored to their needs as well as purchase devices that they know works well for them. Following a low vision consultation or a referral from any MD or OD, each person will be asked to have their first initial evaluation visit at the EVRC clinic in Wichita where their goals, needs and wants can be discussed as well as a review of available low vision devices. Consequently, follow-up visits by EVRC staff at their place of residence can be productive and personalized.
“The leadership at Envision is supportive of the Envision Vision Rehabilitation Center’s desire to expand services and we certainly understand the need,” said Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Foundation and Mission Services. “Stacy leads a remarkable team of low vision rehabilitation experts who have been with Envision for many years. Their services are in high demand.”
The new strategic initiative of the Envision Vision Rehabilitation Center in Wichita is open to sponsorships. If you are interested in getting involved or want help navigating services for your geographic area, please call 316-440-1600 and or visit envisionus.com/rehab.
About Envision: Envision promotes advocacy and independence for those who are blind or low vision. Founded in 1933, Envision is one of the largest employers of individuals with vision loss in the nation. Headquartered in Wichita, Kan., Envision’s mission is to improve the quality of life and provide inspiration and opportunity for people who are blind or visually impaired through employment, outreach, rehabilitation, education and research. For more information, visit www.envisionus.com.
Media Contact: Holly Herring, Marketing Manager, Envision, Inc.
Office: 316-440-1531 | Email: media@envisionus.com
