Dr. John Sivesind’s Mission to Improve Vision Health on the Flandreau Indian Reservation
At The Eye Guys, we echo the importance of accessible eyecare and we do our part to extend the reach of our work beyond the walls of our practice. In the heart of South Dakota, our very own Dr. John Sivesind dedicates one day each week to the Flandreau Indian Reservation, bringing much-needed eye care to the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. Through this work, he feeds back into a community that has otherwise been historically isolated from accessible, quality healthcare and eyecare.
The Flandreau Indian Reservation, home to the federally recognized Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, is a vital part of the necessary storytelling and preservation of the histories and present stories of the first people of America. For the people of this reservation, regular access to healthcare services is essential for maintaining their quality of life. Vision care, in particular, plays a critical role in health, daily function, and learning for individuals of all ages, from school-aged children to elders.
A Commitment to Accessible Eye Care
Dr. Sivesind’s visits to the Flandreau Reservation are a testament to his dedication to making healthcare accessible to everyone. For patients on the reservation, his services mean more than just eye exams—they provide early detection and treatment of vision issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. Alongside the necessary vision checks that come with comprehensive eye exams, Dr. Sivesind is also able to identify other physiological issues like diabetes and Lupus by looking at the structure of the eye.
In addition to providing eye exams, Dr. Sivesind offers screenings for conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other vision-related issues that are essential for long-term eye health. By regularly visiting the reservation, he helps prevent and treat vision problems that could lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Cultural Respect and Connection
Beyond his passion for eyecare, Dr. Sivesind’s work on the reservation speaks to a deep respect and safeguarding of the people that keep the fundamental cultural practices and indigenous knowledge of America alive. Each interaction is an opportunity to strengthen connections with the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, honoring their cultural heritage and values.
Dr. Sivesind’s dedication to the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe is a display of true custodianship in healthcare. He doesn’t do it for profit or points but rather for the enrichment and preservation of historically ostracized and harmed peoples. His visits to the reservation go beyond providing eyecare as they build a bridge of trust and service to support the community's health and quality of life.
For more information about the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, please visit their official website.