Bridging the Gap Between Vision Screening Referrals and Confirmatory Eye Examinations
This webinar session describes some of the common challenges and cultural beliefs that can create barriers to obtaining eye care and offers strategies for overcoming some of the barriers to eye care. The session will also provide information about financial assistance resources families may use to obtain an eye examination and eyeglasses, if needed, and describe how a team-based individualized Health Action Plan can serve as a facilitator to overcoming barriers to eye care.
Undiagnosed and untreated vision disorders in young children can interfere with learning. In an ideal world, the pathway from a vison screening resulting in a referral would immediately lead to a confirmatory eye examination and treatment or monitoring to help ensure children have their best vision now and for the future. The ideal pathway does not always continue beyond a vision screening referral, however.
Target Audience
Anyone who follows up with families after their children receive a referral from a vision screening, including school nurses, social workers, Early Head Start and Head Start staff, and early care and education professionals.
Learning Objectives
- Describe three common barriers to scheduling and attending an eye examination after receiving a referral from a vision screening.
- Describe 3 strategies to help overcome barriers to eye care.
- List 1 financial resource that will cover the costs of an annual eye examination and a pair of prescription glasses and one financial resource for undocumented families.