South Australian Eye Health Initiative Proposed
An eye health initiative is being advocated for in South Australia, proposing a universal vision screening program for children in preschools and day care centers. This follows a case where early detection of a vision issue prevented a condition from developing in a child.
Early Detection: A Case Study
Carole Thornley's daughter, Lucy, underwent an eye test upon recommendation from kindergarten educators due to observed difficulties in following instructions and connecting drawings. Optometrist Hayley McDonald identified early indicators of a lazy eye in Lucy at four years old. According to Ms. McDonald, early intervention through vision correction prevented the condition from fully developing. Ms. Thornley reported subsequent improvements in Lucy's reading, writing, and social skills.
Undiagnosed Vision Conditions
Flinders University researcher and optometrist Cassandra Haines stated that failure to detect vision conditions in young children can result in permanent blindness in the affected eye. Recent research conducted by Flinders University indicates that 17 percent of children had an undiagnosed vision condition. Ms. Haines noted that other Australian states operate comprehensive vision screening programs achieving nearly 100 percent participation before children commence school.
Advocacy for Universal Screening
Ms. Haines, along with other researchers and eye health professionals, is calling for the South Australian government to implement a universal vision screening program for all children attending preschools and day care centers. This proposal has received support from eye healthcare leaders within the state. Researchers estimate the program would cost approximately $1.1 million and could be operational by 2028 with government endorsement. They highlight that poor vision can negatively affect children's academic performance and their learning and earning potential throughout their lives.
Current Services and Challenges
Currently, the Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS) offers free vision and hearing checks for four and five-year-olds. However, researchers estimate that only 40 percent of eligible children access this service.
Government Response
A spokesperson for the Women's and Children's Health Network did not confirm commitment of funding for the proposed program. The spokesperson stated that CaFHS continues to collaborate with kindergartens and early learning centers to enhance participation in existing vision screening programs for four and five-year-olds. They emphasized that vision screening for children aged four and under is crucial for the timely detection and management of childhood eye issues, which can become untreatable if not addressed early. Children identified with vision loss can be referred directly to the Women's and Children's Hospital from CaFHS without requiring a general practitioner or optometrist referral.
Screening Process and Importance
Ms. McDonald described the free vision testing process for young children as quick and straightforward, involving reading shapes on a chart and using a machine to automatically screen for glasses prescriptions. She stated that parents and children may not be aware of vision problems, making early screening critical for effective treatment. Ms. Thornley has expressed support for a universal preschool vision testing program, citing its potential to ensure no child is overlooked.