In a ground breaking development, The Chicago Lighthouse is expanding its world class vision care services to residents of northwest Indiana through an innovative partnership with the TradeWinds social service agency of Merrillville.
The initiative will mark the first time that the 109-year-old agency based on Chicago’s near west side will offer direct services outside of Illinois.
Dr. Tracy Matchinski, a Lighthouse vision rehabilitation optometrist, is now accepting new patients for low vision examinations at TradeWinds, located at 3198 E. 83rd Place in Merrillville, one day a month. Depending on need, additional days may be added.
A 1995 graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, Dr. Matchinski completed her residency at the William Feinbloom Low Vision Rehabilitation Center of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 1996. She has been practicing Vision Rehabilitation Care for almost 20 years and has a special interest in pediatric vision rehabilitation.
Dr. Matchinski is ABO Board Certified and a Low Vision Diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry. She has lectured both nationally and internationally on low vision rehabilitation.
“We are deeply appreciative to TradeWinds for reaching out to us,” said Dr. Janet Szlyk, Lighthouse president and CEO. “We have been long-time admirers of the marvelous work that it does and look forward with great anticipation to begin offering vision care to their program participants.”
According to Dr. Kara Crumbliss, director of low vision services at The Lighthouse, the new clinic at TradeWinds will offer such services as low vision examinations; recommendations for optical, technological and auditory assistive devices; and programs for people with vision loss and occupational therapy services.
“We are thrilled that The Chicago Lighthouse with its unparalleled reputation for quality and comprehensive vision care will begin serving our clients,” said TradeWinds CEO Jon Gold.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 312/997-3686.