CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa.—The Macula Vision Research Foundation (MVRF), an organization dedicated to finding a cure for macular degeneration and other diseases, along with VisionCare Inc.—which focuses on the development, manufacturing and marketing of implantable ophthalmic devices and technologies intended to help individuals with end-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—have announced their new partnership of industry and philanthropy to benefit more than 15 million people in the United States with age-related macular degeneration.

According to the two organizations, the goal of their partnership is to increase awareness of potential treatments for AMD including the CentraSight treatment program, which includes the telescope implant, a device proven to restore central vision and improve quality of life in those with end-stage (advance) macular degeneration.

“We are excited to be working with the VisionCare team to link patients, caregivers and families affected by macular degeneration with the most up-to-date information and help educate them about viable opportunities in the marketplace that may help them improve their quality of life,” said Dawn Prall George, executive director of MVRF.

The collaboration is centered around MVRF’s SupportSightSM program, the national education and outreach arm of the Foundation which includes three components: free SupportSightSM seminars across the country, SupportSightNewsSM, MVRF’s newsletter and SupportSightSM resources which include a toll free number, retirement communities and access to disease-specific information, among others.

Through the partnership, MVRF and VisionCare will also raise awareness about the potential benefits of the telescope implant for patients with profound vision loss in both eyes. Recent changes in eligibility have allowed this treatment to become more available to a wider range of patients, the organizations stated.

“We chose to partner with the MVRF because of their unwavering support of the AMD community and commitment to education that broadens understanding of macular degeneration prevention, diagnosis and treatment options,” said Blake Michaels, president and CEO of VisionCare, Inc. “We’re pleased to signal our commitment to their mission through this partnership.”