Establishment of comprehensive low vision services in Michigan

The AOA Low Vision Section presented its distinguished service award to the Michigan Commission for the Blind during the Section's 10th anniversary celebration at the 95th AOA Congress in Montreal. A progressive low vision service delivery system has evolved in Michigan over the past 22 years with optometry identified as the provider of clinical low vision care. The development of this system is described as the relationship between the Michigan Optometric Association, Michigan Commission for the Blind, and other multidisciplinary agencies is explained. Strategies for serving the visually impaired pediatric, career/vocationally aged, elderly and multiply handicapped populations in Michigan are highlighted. This historical review offers ideas for future planning as optometric low vision services are integrated into other state programs.