Improving access to vision screening in urban Philadelphia elementary schools

Area of Science:

• Community health
• Pediatric ophthalmology
• Public health initiatives

Background:

• The Wills Eye Vision Screening Program for Children targets urban elementary schools in Philadelphia.
• It aims to detect vision problems, correct refractive errors with glasses, and refer children with other eye conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based vision screening program for children.
• To assess the program's ability to provide vision correction and referrals in an underserved urban population.

Main Methods:

• Vision screening for visual acuity, stereopsis, and color vision was conducted in grades K-5 across 45 schools.
• Children failing screening received on-site optometric assessment, with two pairs of free eyeglasses provided.
• Referrals were made to Wills Eye Hospital for suspected non-refractive eye disease, with social worker follow-up.

Main Results:

• Over 10,700 children were screened, with 12% identified as having refractive errors.
• 77% of children with refractive errors received two pairs of glasses.
• Of 509 referred children, 127 completed eye examinations at Wills Eye Hospital.

Conclusions:

• The program effectively delivers comprehensive vision screening, including eyeglasses and referrals.
• It serves as a model for addressing vision care needs in underserved urban communities.