[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

120 STAT. 3769
 
PROCLAMATION 7986--FEB. 27, 2006



Proclamation 7986 of February 27, 2006
Save Your Vision Week, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Many Americans suffer from diseases and disorders of the eye that can
affect their vision and quality of life. During Save Your Vision Week,
we highlight how basic eye care and protection can help citizens
maintain and enjoy healthy eyesight.
An important part of ensuring physical well-being includes making
healthy choices and adopting habits that can prevent disease and injury.
Many of the problems that lead to blindness each year can be avoided
with simple steps to protect the eyes, such as wearing sunglasses and
using protective eyewear while working in hazardous environments or
participating in sports.
Because the first noticeable symptom of many eye diseases is often
vision loss, early detection is vital. As a result of the Medicare
Modernization Act, diabetes screenings and glaucoma tests for eligible
beneficiaries are now covered by Medicare as a part of an initial
physical exam for new Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare also covers
glaucoma screenings for beneficiaries with diabetes who are at high risk
or have a family history of the disease. I encourage America's seniors
to act to preserve their vision by taking advantage of this health care
benefit. And I urge all Americans to have regular eye examinations as
part of their health care routines.
By raising awareness about the importance of preventing eye problems and
the measures citizens can take to protect their vision and by providing
greater access for the detection and treatment of eye diseases, we can
continue to work toward a healthier Nation where more Americans enjoy
the gift of healthy vision.
The Congress, by joint resolution approved December 30, 1963, as amended
(77 Stat. 629; 36 U.S.C. 138), has authorized and requested the
President to proclaim the first week in March of each year as ``Save
Your Vision Week.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim March 5 through March 11, 2006, as Save Your
Vision Week. I encourage all Americans to make eye care and eye safety
an important part of their lives.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-seventh day
of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH