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Specialization in low vision rehabilitation and visual therapy
M Jordan1, J Stelmack, R Hollyfield
1Central Blind Rehabilitation Center, Hines Veterans Affairs Hospital, IL 60414.
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Most low vision clinicians serve many patients but dedicate little practice time to low vision services. This suggests a potential gap in low vision rehabilitation and visual training specialization among practitioners.
Area of Science:
- Optometry
- Ophthalmology
- Vision Science
Background:
- The practice patterns of low vision clinicians are not well-documented.
- Understanding the extent of specialization in low vision rehabilitation and visual training is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the practice patterns of low vision clinicians.
- To assess the amount and source of specialty training in low vision.
- To evaluate dual specialization in low vision rehabilitation and visual training among Council on Visual Development members.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was mailed to members of the Low Vision Section (LVS) of the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the Council on Visual Development (COVD).
- The survey assessed patient caseloads, time spent on low vision services, and specialty training.
Main Results:
- 61.1% of AOA/LVS members and 20.9% of COVD members see over four low vision patients monthly.
- Only 32.2% of AOA/LVS members and 2.1% of COVD members spend more than 20% of their practice time on low vision services.
Conclusions:
- A significant number of clinicians see low vision patients, but many do not dedicate a substantial portion of their practice to these services.
- There may be a disconnect between the demand for low vision services and the time practitioners allocate to them.
- Further investigation into training and practice models is warranted to optimize low vision care.