Visual acuity and stereopsis screening results in an underserved community.

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Visual acuity and stereopsis screening results in an underserved community. Optometry. 2010 Apr;81(4):200-204 Authors: Register SJ BACKGROUND: This report provides a background of pediatric eye examinations and their importance and necessity from a public health perspective. In addition, it introduces a new clinical service that assists educational institutions in achieving goals of improving access to pediatric eye examinations through vision screenings. METHODS: This study focused on visual acuity and stereopsis results obtained from 5 vision screenings at local Boys and Girls Clubs in Boston. These screenings were affiliated with an educational institution to assist in optometric student education and exposure. RESULTS: A total of 252 children from various demographic backgrounds were screened. There was a mean failure rate of 37.4%, with 23.7% of failures attributed to reduced visual acuity and 24.2% attributed to reduced stereopsis. CONCLUSION: This study confirms the need for vision screenings and appropriate follow-up through pediatric eye examinations. Furthermore, this study stresses the importance of community collaboration to improve access of care and adequate penetration within communities. PMID: 20346892 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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