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Published on: March 24, 2020
Combining automated vision screening with on-site examinations in 23 schools: ReFocus on Children Program 2012 to
Purpose:
The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI) began the ReFocus on Children Program to assist school nurses in providing vision screening for at-risk children in the Charleston County School District in South Carolina.
Methods:
In 2012 to 2013, 2,750 low-income school children ages 3 to 5 years were screened using the Plusoptix Vision screener (Atlanta, GA). Further examinations were performed on 419 (56%) children referred and glasses prescribed and provided for 192 children (positive predictive value 46%). In 2013, teacher feedback questionnaires were sent to the 23 schools.
Results:
Teacher feedback questionnaires had a 49% response rate. Of teachers responding to the questionnaire, 70% reported the children liked wearing their glasses. Teachers provided observations of positive impact, including improved academic performance.
Conclusions:
Nurses appreciated that the entire process was efficient and completed in school, simplifying care and follow-up. The authors encourage partnerships between schools, nonprofit agencies, and healthcare providers to improve screening and access to comprehensive vision care for young children.
