CNIB Eye Van

On the Road in Northern Ontario

In partnership with the Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (EPSO), the CNIB Eye Van (Medical Mobile Eye Care Unit) was established in 1972 as part of the Prevention of Blindness program.

The Eye Van is a custom-made transport truck and 48-foot trailer including reception and waiting areas, a vision screening area, and a doctor’s examination room. Special features include a reinforced floor and hydraulic leveling system that allows for minor surgery to be performed on site, including a state-of-the-art SLT laser for treatment.

Operated by CNIB, the fully-equipped medical mobile eye care clinic on wheels travels more than 6,000 kilometres each year.  With the commitment from more than 25 ophthalmologists, the CNIB Eye Van visits 30 communities in Northern Ontario, providing service to approximately 4,500 patients.

Watch the video below to hear more from Dr. Kosar and his work on the eye van.

Keeping Eyes Healthy: Screening & Prevention

“I’ve been very fortunate. If it hadn’t been for the Eye Van, I would have lost the sight in my eye.” -Kathy, Patient, CNIB Eye Van

The ophthalmologists conduct vision exams, treat eye conditions, perform minor surgeries, and offer much-needed medical advice and information about eye health. Nearly 90 per cent of the patients screened on the CNIB Eye Van are monitored for eye conditions that could lead to blindness, if left untreated.

Strengthening Community Partnerships Through Education

The ophthalmologists and CNIB staff hold sessions for members of the medical community to share information on vision health, diagnosis and treatment.  The CNIB Eye Van also acts as a referral source for Vision Loss Rehabilitation Ontario (VLRO) and the CNIB Foundation.

CNIB Ontario is committed to ensuring all Ontarians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life.

**After conducting several in depth risk assessments and carefully reviewing information from the Ontario Government and Ontario Health, the CNIB Foundation and Vision Loss Rehabilitation Ontario (VLRO) have announced the cancellation of the 2020 Eye Van Tour in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.** READ MORE