HIGHLIGHTS
Tech Pals: Lighthouse-Montefiore Einstein Collaborative
The pilot program assisted older visually impaired patients in using accessibility and mobile application functions to improve their technology competency, quality of life, and health outcomes. For six weeks during the summer, Tech Pal mentors from Lighthouse Guild visited Montefiore Einstein’s ophthalmology clinic twice a week with Lighthouse Guild Job Coach Chelsea Baez. The mentors, also visually impaired, partnered with patients for one-on-one educational sessions, teaching them how to use their handheld devices based on their individual needs and goals. Visually impaired patients who could most benefit from services were identified by the Montefiore Einstein team, Zara Mian, BS, and Olivia Allen, MS3, who also facilitated the mentors and mentees during their visits to the Montefiore Ophthalmology Department. Patients were able to attend these sessions at no cost, and met with the Tech Pals for individualized training held in conference rooms donated by the Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology and Cardiothoracic Surgery Departments. Not only did the program benefit Montefiore Einstein patients, but it also provided valuable career experience for the mentors through their internship. Lighthouse Guild looks forward to future collaborations with Montefiore Einstein and Dr. Shrivastava that will increase access to services for people who are visually impaired and assist them in attaining their goals.
Patient referrals
At Montefiore Einstein Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, we know that providing patients with the best possible care includes teamwork and trust. We work closely with our valued referring physicians to ensure open communication and reliable expertise.
Contact us
ashrivas@montefiore.org,
Anurag Shrivastava,
Assistant Dean for Montefiore Medical Center
Please call 718-920-2020 for patient appointments