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Comparing paediatric optometric vision care in Canada over a 14-year period
Lisa W Christian1, Victor Opoku-Yamoah1, Kalpana Rose1
1School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Canadian optometrists are more willing to provide pediatric eye care, recommending earlier first eye exams. However, the actual age children receive their first exam and weekly patient numbers remain unchanged, indicating a need to address barriers to early care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Pediatric Healthcare
Background:
- Optometric education and continuing education in pediatric eye care have increased in Canada.
- Paediatric vision care guidelines have been established by North American optometric associations.
- This study investigates the impact of increased educational exposure on Canadian optometrists' pediatric eye care practices over 14 years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine changes in Canadian optometrists' pediatric eye care practices over a 14-year period.
- To assess if increased educational focus on pediatric eye care correlates with changes in practice.
- To identify trends in recommended and actual ages for children's first eye examinations.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous 35-item surveys were administered to Canadian optometrists in 2007 and 2021.
- Surveys collected data on recommended first eye exam ages, number of pediatric patients seen weekly, and preparedness for pediatric eye exams.
- Response frequencies were analyzed to identify changes over the 14-year study period.
Main Results:
- Optometrists' recommended age for first eye exams shifted significantly towards earlier ages (6-12 months in 2021 vs. 3-4 years in 2007).
- The percentage of optometrists providing eye exams to children under 2 years old increased from 87% to 94%.
- Despite recommendations, the most common age for first eye exams and weekly pediatric patient numbers remained largely unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Optometrists' willingness and preparedness to provide pediatric eye care have improved.
- A discrepancy exists between recommended and actual ages for initial pediatric eye examinations.
- Further investigation is needed to understand and overcome barriers preventing earlier routine eye care for children.
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