Low-Income Can Still Have Lasik in St. Louis

On the Illinois side of St. Louis, a program has been started to help get Lasik further ingrained into the lives of those who live on a lower income. The program started in June, 2001 and is sponsored by The Pepose Vision Institute in Chesterfield and the optometry school at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Originally designed for only low-income residents, the first responders after 9-11 have been allowed to benefit from the program as well. "So far it's been fabulous," Belleville Fire Department Capt. J.P. Penet said. "As a firefighter, I wear an air mask and have to be able to see clearly. My eyes can no longer tolerate contact lenses." Hopefully, the program will eventually become as effective for those with low incomes as it has proven to be for the firefighters.

The way the program works begins with qualification. Those interested must make less than $25,000 a year, be between 20 and 55 years of age, and must also live in St. Clair, Madison, and Monroe counties (the reason firefighters and policemen benefit from this is because the income limitation does not apply). Participants who qualify then only have to pay $70 for the initial examination. The surgery is then performed at the Pepose institute.

If you're looking for a great Chicago, Illinois Lasik surgeon then try contacting The Myers Center for the Eye.