Low Vision Services

Descriptions were taken from the organizations’ web sites. 

The Richard E. Hoover Rehabilitation Services for Low Vision & Blindness

Greater Baltimore Medical Center
6569 N. Charles Street
Physicians Pavilion West, Suite 305
Baltimore, MD 21204
Phone: (443) 849-2658 or (443) 849-2603
Fax: (443) 849-2631
Hours: M–F 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Web site: www.gbmc.org/medicine/hoover/index.cfm

 Hoover Rehabilitation Services provides both low vision evaluation and rehabilitation services. The Hoover team includes ophthalmologists, rehabilitation teachers, and orientation and mobility instructors. The main objective of Hoover Services is to teach an individual who is visually impaired how to most effectively use their remaining vision. A client of Hoover Services first receives an at-home pre-assessment. A low vision examination in the clinic follows. Optical and non-optical aids, together with professional instruction, is provided. Follow-up services, as well as orientation and mobility instruction, are delivered at home, school or work. Specialists may also suggest changes in lighting and contrast to enhance visual performance as a result of an environmental analysis. 

The Lions Low Vision Research and Training Center at Johns Hopkins

Johns Hopkins Hospital
600 N. Wolfe Street
Baltimore, MD 21287
Phone: (410) 955-0580
Web site: www.wilmer.jhu.edu
E-mail: wilmerinfo@jhmi.edu

The Low Vision Consultation Service at Johns Hopkins is designed to provide advanced clinical low vision care through a comprehensive service model. Optometrists and clinical social workers work together to identify the most effective intervention. The goal is to help an individual function more fully and with greater comfort, safety, and independence.

Individuals first undergo a functional assessment/ interview to determine the impact of low vision on daily life. Next the optometrist evaluates visual performance, performs measurements, and tests the effectiveness of several low vision devices. Special glasses, magnifiers, telescopes, sunglasses, and other optical devices are evaluated. Items such as lighting, large print, audio materials, and adaptive writing systems are also tested.

Individuals can also learn about and be referred to an array of related services and sources of adaptive equipment. 

LVC (Low Vision  Center) 

7701 Woodmont Ave., Suite 604
Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: (301) 951-4444
Web site: wwww.lowvisioninfo.org
E-mail: terry@lowvisioninfo.org 

The Low Vision Center (LVC) is an information and referral service for those who have, or are experiencing transition to partial vision. LVC helps individuals find resources which can help them become more independent and reach their full potential. All services are free of charge. LVC also offers a free demonstration center where interested individuals can examine and evaluate commonly available low vision devices. 

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind

Programs and Services
6200 Baltimore Ave., Suite 100
Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: (240) 737-5100
Fax: (240) 737-5101
Web site:  http://www.clb.org
E-mail: info@clb.org 

Administrative Office
1120 20th St. NW, Suite 750 S.
Washington, DC  20036
Phone: (202-454-6400
Fax: (202) 454-6401 

CLB's optometrist will introduce you to adaptive aids and techniques that enhance your vision and independence. Low vision care begins with a low vision evaluation. Special lenses, prisms, magnifiers, light filters, and other devices may be prescribed to augment and improve vision.

National Retina Institute

5530 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 101
Chevy Chase, MD  20815
Phone: (301) 986-8747
Fax: (301) 986-8944
Web site: http://www.nationalretina.org/
or
901 Dulaney valley Rd., Suite 200
Baltimore, MD  21204
Phone: (410) 337-4500
Fax: (410) 339-7326

Offer diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases including surgery; low vision evaluations and prescription of low vision devices. 

Vision Support

Scott Holden
1701 Kiva Rd.
Silver Spring, MD  20905
Phone: (301) 388-2040
Fax: (301) 388-0073
E-mail:  scottholden28@verizon.net 

Sells wide range of video magnifiers including portable and tabletop models.

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