In an era where transparency in healthcare is more critical than ever, Desert Vision Center is leading the change for reform. On Saturday, June 28, 2025, the center will host a community wide Ethical Cataract Care Pledge Signing Event at Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert, inviting patients, physicians, and local leaders to take a public stand against unethical referral practices.
At the heart of the initiative is the Ethical Cataract Care Pledge—a growing movement launched by board-certified cataract surgeon, Dr. Keith Tokuhara, to end the influence of hidden financial incentives in eye care. The pledge affirms a simple but powerful commitment: No kickbacks. No commissions. No hidden incentives. Ever.
“Too many patients are steered toward surgeons or procedures based on money, not medicine,” says Dr. Tokuhara. “This event is about restoring trust and empowering people to ask the right questions before surgery.”
What to Expect at the Event:
· Live pledge signing & photo opportunities for patients, physicians, and community members
· Free educational resources, including a 5-question checklist to detect hidden incentives
· Media availability and interviews with Dr. Tokuhara and supporting advocates
· Ethics badge pickup for patients, businesses, and clinics that join the movement.
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Venue: Grand Paseo Ballroom, Hotel Paseo, 45400 Larkspur Ln, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Admission is free and open to the public. Attendees can RSVP or learn more at www.desertvisioncenter.com/ethics
A Community Call to Action
Desert Vision Center’s initiative has already gained attention across the Coachella Valley and beyond. The pledge is being adopted not only by patients, but also by medical professionals and local businesses who want to publicly commit to ethical, patient-first care.
The movement arrives as federal investigations across several states have revealed widespread misuse of financial arrangements in cataract surgery referrals—resulting in multimillion-dollar fines and growing public concern.
Dr. Tokuhara’s campaign offers a solution rooted in transparency, patient advocacy, and a return to medical integrity. By choosing not to participate in co-management kickbacks or commission-based referrals, his team hopes to inspire broader change across the healthcare landscape.
About Desert Vision Center
Desert Vision Center is an independent, physician-owned practice in Rancho Mirage, California. Known for it’s advanced surgical expertise and patient-first philosophy, the center is committed to delivering ethical, high-quality care free from corporate influence of financial conflicts of interest.
For press inquires or interview requests contact:
Selena Reyes, Desert Vision Center Practice Administrator admin@desertvisioncenter.com
(760) 340-4700 www.desertvisioncenter.com
