Danger in Delaying Treatment

Timely treatment for serious eye diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma is critical—even in the face of COVID-19. These progressive conditions can cause vision loss if not treated regularly.

But like many Americans, the fear of contracting COVID-19 drove Richard Turner’s decision to delay treatment for macular degeneration, which nearly cost him his eyesight.

Kellogg ophthalmologist Laxmi Devisetty, M.D., of the Grand Blanc satellite location, has been treating Turner since his return in June. “The good news is that we were able to resume treatment with injections, and were able to recover almost all of his vision,” she says, noting that he’s back to his regular monthly appointments.

To ensure a safe environment for patients like Turner and clinic staff, Dr. Devisetty has implemented safety measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in her office.

“Every patient and staff member wears a mask, we have protective barriers in place, our waiting process has been changed to minimize time in our waiting rooms, and we monitor everyone who comes to the office," says Dr. Devisetty. "We call the patients ahead of time and if they're sick or not able to come in we've been doing virtual visits.”

Dr. Devisetty wants people to realize the risk of delaying treatment. “The biggest thing we want to accomplish here is to make sure people get the appropriate treatment at the right time and not lose their faculties, especially vision, because it's a life-changing situation and we have the appropriate precautions in place.”

No one knows this better than Turner, who says he’s grateful for the treatment he’s once again getting at the center, adding, “Your life changes when your eyes don’t work.”