Eyes that Thrive in School
2011 Healthy Eyes Healthy People® State Association Grants (Massachusetts)
Administered by the American Optometric Association (AOA) and Optometry Cares® –The AOA Foundation, through grant from Luxottica
Key Message: The optimal time to treat vision conditions, including amblyopia, conditions leading to amblyopia and significant refractive errors, is during the preschool years. Diagnosis of a vision condition is only useful if a child is able to access and participate in treatment. School based education, communication, advocacy, facilitation and supervision of vision interventions can link parents, pediatricians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, teachers and health managers to have a positive impact on visual outcomes for children.
Outcome: 93% compliance to vision intervention of children enrolled in the study (eyeglasses and other treatment); Qualitative measures: success for children and parents; support from multidisciplinary team; new concepts: Vision Action Plan; Two Pair (glasses for school, glasses for home); new policies for school compliance; elevate awareness of importance of vision.