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Integrating eye care into Community Health Centers: a framework for advancing vision equity in underserved
Angelica C Scanzera1, Diane Russo2, Susan A Primo3
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
Frontiers in Health Services
|January 5, 2026
Summary
Integrating eye care into Community Health Centers (CHCs) is crucial for underserved populations. This strategy aims to make vision services a mandated offering in CHCs nationwide, improving health equity.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Vision health is vital for economic stability and employment, yet access to eye care is limited for underserved populations.
- Community Health Centers (CHCs) serve millions but offer limited vision care, creating significant access disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose an integrated framework for sustainable and equitable integration of eye care providers into CHCs.
- To inform implementation research and policy for mandated on-site eye care services in CHCs.
Main Methods:
- Developed a multi-level strategy integrating the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), NIMHD Research Framework, and NACHC Value Transformation Framework (VTF).
- Focused on implementation readiness, equity, and sustainability for integrating optometrists and ophthalmologists into CHCs.
Main Results:
- Identified a gap in vision care services within CHCs, with only 26% offering services and 2.9% of patients receiving eye care.
- Proposed a framework to guide the strategic implementation of comprehensive eye care within CHCs.
Conclusions:
- An integrated, systems-level approach is necessary to embed eye care services within CHCs.
- Making on-site eye care a mandated service in CHCs can expand access and improve health outcomes for underserved communities.
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