Vision screening programs in children

Amblyopia, strabismus, and severe refractive errors are important causes of visual impairment in children. The author of this article reviews important considerations for pediatric vision screening and suggests a simple, reliable, and inexpensive approach for the primary-care physician in screening children for potentially serious visual disorders. He emphasizes the cardinal role of the primary-care physician in detecting these disorders early, when optimal treatment can be provided. Assessment of the visual acuity in each eye is the basic principle of this approach. Indications for referral in each age group, from newborns to preschoolers, are outlined. The success of such a program will depend on effective co-ordination of all factors involved: public and physician education, screening, re-screening, subsequent evaluation of diagnosis, and the adoption of an optimal treatment plan.