Orange County Eye Project

We encourage our volunteers to not just shadow, but also observe various steps and diagnostic tests, and to learn how to perform various tests in the clinic - for e.g., checking patients vision, eye pressure, using the diagnostic machines such as OCT and Autoref.

Obviously, this is not allowed from day one, but once we believe that the volunteer has demonstrated a tendency to work hard and be involved in the clinic, as well wanting to learn.

Those volunteers then go on to learning new skillsets in the clinic, including performing various tests and using the machines.

The volunteers have to know that the machines are expensive and fragile (and hence handled carefully), and hence learning to use the machine is a privilege for them.

In the pictures, Salma is using the autorefractor that she has learnt to use in the clinic, while Aidan is working on the OCT machine, with Rene teaching him the use while being a test patient.

Thank you to all the volunteers who have and continue to make a significant difference in the OCEP clinic. We value your time and commitment.

Today’s clinic was staffed by Dr. Hiba Khalil, who provided care to patients with a wide range of ocular conditions—cataracts, glaucoma, corneal diseases (including dry eye and keratoconus), diabetic retinopathy screenings, and more.

Thank you, Dr. Khalil, for sharing your time, expertise, and dedication to patient care.

A big thank you as well to our incredible OCEP team and volunteers—Ivonne, Isha, Ruby, Nathalie, Salma, Jean, and Nilan. Your support makes everything possible.

📸 In the photo: a selfie by Dr. Khalil with Isha (left), clinic coordinator, and Salma, who worked closely alongside Dr. Khalil throughout the clinic.

In the clinic, some of the most meaningful learning happens in real time - right at the exam chair, or close to it.

When providers take a moment to explain what they’re seeing, walk through their thought process, or involve volunteers in patient care, it transforms observation into true understanding.

Volunteers aren’t just watching - they’re learning how to think, how to connect with patients, and how to approach clinical decision-making.

These moments build confidence, spark curiosity, and make complex concepts feel tangible.

For many volunteers, it’s their first glimpse into what practicing healthcare really looks like, and those experiences often shape their future paths.

A few minutes of teaching can leave a lasting impact - turning a single clinic day into a meaningful step in someone’s journey in healthcare.

In the picture, Dr. Ediriwickrema, Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Specialist at UCI Health Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and UC Irvine School of Medicine, takes time to teach those who shadowed her in the clinic yesterday. Thank you Doctor for your time and for sharing your skills with those who wish to follow in your footsteps.