Vision Clinic for Persons with Developmental Disabilities

Eye Service

FOR PERSONS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

We advocate for providing comprehensive eye exams to maximize vision and promote well-being for all individuals with developmental disabilities.

This specialty clinic is open Thursdays from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.

HHC Eye Service Brochure

Getting Ready for your Eye Exam

Intake Form

DDS Limited Release

HHC Medical Release

Specialized Eye Care

In the Vision Center, experienced and highly skilled optometrists collaborate with committed student interns to deliver the highest quality care possible.

Each appointment has a duration of 1 hour. The extended time ensures that we can gather a comprehensive set of measurements at a comfortable pace for each individual.
Exam rooms are easily accessible for each person’s needs.
We currently welcome patients aged 3 through adult.
We provide complete vision exams to patients who are non-verbal.

After your visit, you will be mailed a comprehensive exam letter explaining the exam findings, including lists of recommendations and accommodations to improve everyday vision function.

About Dorothy Tolls, OD

Dr. Tolls, a local optometrist from Dedham, Massachusetts, graduated from the College of the Holy Cross with a bachelor’s degree in English before earning her optometry doctorate from NECO in 1990. She completed her residency at the Brockton/West Roxbury VA Medical Center and now provides eyecare in Central and Western MA. Dr. Tolls has dedicated her career to private practice, community-based care, diabetic retinopathy research, and serving individuals with disabilities and vulnerable populations.

Appointment Intake Process

Step 1

Call Jessica Velez, Patient Center Support Staff at (413) 420-2825 to request an appointment at the Developmental Disability Eye Service with Dr. Tolls.

Step 2

Jessica will ask you questions over the phone to obtain needed information, including your mailing address.

Step 3

A packet with information and forms will be mailed to you. Please completely fill these out and return to Jessica by fax or mail.

Step 4

When the completed packet is received, Jessica will call you to schedule an appointment.
This specialty eye service is open Thursdays from 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Step 5

Arrive at your scheduled appointment 15 minutes early.
We are located at
267 High Street
Holyoke, MA 01040

Any eyeglasses, sunglasses, protective eyewear, and low-vision devices you currently use. These items provide valuable insights into your past experiences, helping us understand what has been beneficial and aiding us in suggesting any new recommendations if necessary.
The presence of a family member, staff, and/or caregiver is encouraged. Having a member of your team accompany you to the visit can contribute to a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, ensuring that we address any questions from everyone involved.

Please call to reschedule. Thank you!

Medicaid (MassHealth), Medicare, Most Private Insurance

The Developmental Disabilities clinic at the HHC Vision Center represents a distinctive partnership involving Holyoke Health Center, New England College of Optometry (NECO), and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Its mission is to offer accessible vision services tailored to the requirements of adults and children with developmental and intellectual disabilities residing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Emphasizing patient education and treatment options, the clinic aims to enhance visual function and overall quality of life for each individual it serves.