Last Updated: Aug 2, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2021
On July 28, 2021, David I. Silbert, MD, an ophthalmologist from Lancaster County, was presented the 2021 Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) Physician Award for Voluntary Service.
Dr. Silbert is the founder and medical director of KinderSee, an inner-city pediatric eye clinic located at George Washington Elementary School. Every month during the academic school year, Dr. Silbert brings his team of skilled ophthalmological staff to see students throughout the School District of Lancaster. During these visits, young patients receive a complete eye exam at no cost to the student’s family.
“Dr. Silbert and his staff provide an amazing example of how the medical community can quietly, but significantly, impact public health,” said PAMED Board Chair Edward Balaban, DO, who presented Dr. Silbert with the award (photo left to right Dr. Balaban presents the award to Dr. Silbert). “This award is noteworthy; however, it can only be a small gesture of recognition for such a far-reaching worthwhile effort. It was an honor and privilege to recognize Dr. Silbert and his clinic.”
In the last nine years, Dr. Silbert and his team have seen more than 2,500 children at the KinderSee clinic, examining, treating, providing glasses, and performing surgery on hundreds of children who may not have received care otherwise.
“Most of the children Dr. Silbert sees would have no ability to get to an ophthalmology office for an appointment, let alone be able to receive a proper fitting pair of children's glasses,” said Dr. Silbert’s nominator. “KinderSee is a powerful example of what happens when you can meet families and children in their environment.”
“I have a passion to serve underserved communities, whether here or abroad,” said Dr. Silbert. “As a physician, I feel that's just what we do.”
In odd-numbered years, PAMED’s Physician Award for Voluntary Service recognizes a member for his or her volunteerism in their community. In even-numbered years, it recognizes a member for his or her international volunteerism. Nominations are now open for PAMED’s 2022 awards. Learn more and nominate a deserving physician at www.pamedsoc.org/awards.
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Contact:
Claire Shearer, Pennsylvania Medical Society
MediaRelations@pamedsoc.org
About the Pennsylvania Medical Society
PAMED is a physician-led, member-driven organization representing all physicians and medical students throughout the state. We advocate for physicians and their patients, educate physicians through continuing medical education, and provide expert resources and guidance to help physicians and their organizations navigate challenges in today’s ever-evolving health care system. For more information, visit www.pamedsoc.org.