Barriers and facilitators of vision screening in the US pediatric primary care setting: a mixed methods systematic...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Ophthalmology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Childhood vision screening is critical for identifying undiagnosed vision problems.
• Current rates of appropriate vision screening in primary care settings are reported as low.
• Early detection through screening can prevent long-term visual impairment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review barriers and facilitators impacting vision screening for children aged 3-17 years in US primary care.
• To inform the development of targeted interventions aimed at enhancing pediatric vision screening rates.
• To synthesize evidence on factors influencing the implementation of effective vision screening programs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase) and gray literature.
• Inclusion of all study types in English reporting on barriers/facilitators for vision screening in US pediatric primary care.
• Appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and data extraction via a modified JBI form, with convergent integrated data synthesis.

Main Results:

• The review synthesizes findings on factors hindering or promoting vision screening uptake and completion.
• Identified barriers may include system-level issues, provider knowledge gaps, and patient/family factors.
• Facilitators likely involve clear protocols, provider training, and accessible screening methods.

Conclusions:

• Addressing identified barriers and leveraging facilitators is essential for improving childhood vision screening rates.
• Enhanced screening protocols in primary care can significantly impact early detection and management of vision disorders.
• Future interventions should be informed by this comprehensive understanding of the pediatric vision screening landscape.