Affiliations: New England College of Optometry, New England Eye
Institute, Boston, MA, USA | Prevent Blindness America, Northeast Region, Boston,
MA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Stacy Ayn Lyons, OD, FAAO, New
England College of Optometry, 424 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA. Tel.:
+1 617 266 2030 x5381; Fax: +1 617 587 5562; E-mail: lyonss@neco.edu
Abstract: The successful delivery of comprehensive pediatric vision care after
vision screening referral is a longstanding challenge that has significant
implications for child wellness. In response to the many known obstacles that
prevent the diagnosis and treatment of vision conditions, School-Based Vision
Centers have been established in Framingham, MA and Boston, MA to provide easy
access to comprehensive vision care following a failed vision screening. These
on-site Vision Centers were developed to improve access to comprehensive vision
care and treatment thereby correcting vision conditions that can adversely
affect student academic achievement, athletic performance, and self-esteem.
This paper highlights the collaboration between two public schools in
Massachusetts and The New England Eye Institute and describes a
multidisciplinary approach to comprehensive care delivery to high-risk
pediatric populations in school-based settings. The ultimate goal of this model
is to minimize visual barriers that may impede learning in order to maximize
academic success and wellness.
Keywords: Learning, pediatrics, eye care, wellness, school-based health center
