Related Experiment Videos
The Vision First Check Program in British Columbia: a preschool vision screening program for children age two and age
1webbsite@dowco.com
Insights
The Vision First Check Program offers free preschool vision screenings for two- and three-year-olds by optometrists. This initiative aims to detect vision problems early in young children.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Pediatric Optometry
Background:
- Preschool vision screening is crucial for early detection of visual impairments.
- The Vision First Check Program was developed to address the need for accessible vision assessments in young children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate the implementation of a novel preschool vision screening program.
- To provide a no-cost vision screening for children aged two and three.
Main Methods:
- The program was developed in consultation with ophthalmology and optometry professionals.
- It was piloted by optometrists in four British Columbia communities from January to June 1998.
- Screenings were conducted by optometrists for children aged two and three.
Main Results:
- The program offered one vision screening at no cost to families or the Medical Services Plan of BC.
- Marketing was coordinated through public health, and data collection through the Medical Services Plan.
Conclusions:
- The Vision First Check Program successfully provided a no-cost, optometrist-led vision screening for preschoolers.
- The program's collaborative development and coordinated implementation demonstrated a viable model for public health initiatives.
Abstract:
The Vision First Check Program was developed in consultation with ophthalmology and optometry representatives on the provincial Vision Advisory Committee and piloted by participating optometrists in four communities in BC between January and June 1998. This preschool vision screening program provides for one vision screening for children aged two and three at no cost to the family or the Medical Services Plan of BC. The screening is by optometrists, the marketing of the program is coordinated through public health, and the data collection is coordinated through the Medical Services Plan as a no-fee item.