Outcomes of a Vision Care Program that Provides Comprehensive Eye Exams to Children who have Failed School Screenings in the San Antonio Northside Independent School District

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: To determine the impact of a program that provides a comprehensive eye exam to children who failed a vision screening. Method: Seven hundred seventeen students from the San Antonio Northside Independent School District (NISD) received a comprehensive eye examination. The records of these students were retrospectively analyzed to determine the impact of the exam on this population. Results: The mean improvement in visual acuity after receiving a comprehensive eye exam at the Rosenberg School of Optometry was approximately five- and one-half lines of acuity. In addition to refractive error, other conditions related to eye coordination and ocular health were diagnosed. Conclusions: This program provided a significant improvement in vision for these individuals and identified conditions needing further evaluation and treatment. While only addressing a small percentage of children in the NISD, it demonstrates that screening programs need follow through to be effective.