They’re now available online.
The American Optometric Association has issued a revised, evidence-based clinical guideline for pediatric eyecare.
Called “Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline: Comprehensive Pediatric Eye and Vision Examination,” the document is for doctors of optometry and other professionals who treat children, and also for their parents and caregivers. It is now available online.
The guideline reflects a systematic review and assessment by the AOA Evidenced-Based Optometry Committee, along with experts in their fields, including doctors of optometry, a pediatrician, a social worker and a parent.
An estimated one in five preschool children have vision problems and one in four school-age children wear corrective eyewear in this country, according to AOA. The guideline makes the argument for in-person, comprehensive eye exams for newborns through 18 years old.
“What becomes critically important in children is the impact eye care and vision health can have on how well they function in their lives,” said Dr. Diane Adamczyk, who chairs the AOA EBO Committee. “If this guideline heightens the awareness of getting children’s eyes checked, we’ve accomplished our purpose.”
The guideline is designed to:
- Recommend optimal intervals for in-person, comprehensive eye and vision examinations for infants and children (newborn through 18 years old).
- Suggest appropriate procedures to effectively examine the eye health, vision status and ocular manifestations of systemic disease in infants and children.
- Reduce the risks and adverse effects of eye and vision problems in infants and children through prevention, education, early diagnosis, treatment and management.
- Inform and educate patients, parents/caregivers and other health care providers about the importance of eye health and good vision, and the need for and frequency of pediatric eye and vision examinations.
Read more at AOA