Complements Successful Vision Screening Programs Nationwide

WASHINGTON, D.C.  New legislation introduced in Congress today has the potential to help eradicate untreated vision disorders among children. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the "Vision Care for Kids Act" introduced by Sen. Christopher Bond, R-Mo., is both fiscally responsible and effective in providing critical vision care funding where it is needed most when children require follow-up care after a vision screening identifies a possible eye problem.

"There is nothing more important than helping children see their way into adulthood," said Michael X. Repka, M.D., professor of ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University and Academy secretary for government affairs. "This act helps kids do just that."

The Academy, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) and other eye care organizations helped create and strongly support the act, because it complements individual state programs that identify vision problems in preschoolers. The act helps close the gap for kids who fail a vision screening who are not getting the follow-up diagnosis and treatment they need. It would provide funding in the form of state grants for eye examinations and additional treatment for children who are uninsured or whose health plans do not cover vision service. 

Two percent to five percent of children who fail a vision screening have significant eye problems, beyond those that can be fixed immediately with glasses. Many of these eye problems, if not treated early in life, can lead to permanent and irreversible visual loss. Yet, nearly 25 percent of parents whose children failed a vision screening did not schedule a follow-up comprehensive vision exam for their children because of a lack of financial resources.

Christie L. Morse, M.D., AAPOS president added, "Without this act, many families may not be able to obtain a follow-up eye exam and treatment for their children." 

"Good vision is critical to learning. In fact, 80 percent of what children learn in their early school years is visual. This important legislation will improve vision care for children to better equip them to succeed in school and in life," said Sen. Bond. "With the support of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Optometric Association and the Vision Council of America, together we will make a difference in the lives of children across the country."

This legislation also complements the Children's Healthy Vision Campaign, an effort initiated by the Academy and supported by AAPOS and the American Academy of Family Physicians. This campaign encourages and promotes routine vision screenings for children by physicians and professionally trained screeners a first step toward making sure every child successfully sees their way to childhood. These thorough yet cost-effective screenings identify children who need more comprehensive eye exams.

"Not every child needs a comprehensive eye exam each year, but every child should be screened and referred to a physician should a problem be identified," Dr. Repka added.  "This bill gives children and families in need the means to take the next critical step."

Currently, 31 states and the District of Columbia have mandatory vision screening programs. Eleven additional states recommend screening for preschool children.