AOA president champions back-to-school eye exams in nationwide media blitz

On July 24, during a marathon five-hour satellite media tour with more than 20 TV, radio and online outlets around the country, AOA President Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., stressed the importance of back-to-school eye exams. 

Dr. Bowen underscored the value of partnering with an optometrist to prioritize children’s vision health through in-person, annual, comprehensive eye exams. The AOA media blitz, which will reach an estimated 18.5 million Americans, targeted parents as they think about their children’s back-to-school needs. 

Her key messages included: 

1. Vision screenings, such as those offered at schools or pediatrician offices, are not a substitute for seeing an optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. Parents should prioritize scheduling yearly exams with a doctor of optometry as they are leaders in primary eye health care, helping patients and their families take the first step toward healthier eyes and bodies. 
2. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to optimize children's eye health and vision, as eye and vision problems can worsen over time and lead to future vision loss. 
3. Parents should visit the AOA’s Doctor Locator to schedule an appointment with a local AOA doctor and ensure their children are set up for success ahead of the school year.  

Below is a sample of the insights Dr. Bowen delivered in her interviews with national and local outlets, as well as local ABC, CBS and NBC affiliates. 

Vision screenings are not a substitute for comprehensive eye exams by a doctor of optometry  

The AOA estimates that current vision screenings give less than 4% of the information and value of a comprehensive eye exam, so it’s important that parents take their kids to a doctor of optometry for a complete look at their eyes. 

Failed vision screenings can indicate issues that can only be tested through comprehensive eye care. However, even when a child’s vision problem is identified through a screening, 61% don’t visit an eye doctor to help correct the error. 

How often should children get comprehensive eye exams? 

According to the AOA’s evidence-based pediatric guideline, parents should begin eye care early, as early intervention is key in combatting the growing number of children struggling with eye and vision problems.  

1. Infants should receive a comprehensive baseline eye exam between the ages of 6 and 12 months, immediately after the critical period when the eye undergoes rapid and profound changes and is therefore most vulnerable to interference with normal development. 
2. Preschoolers should receive at least one in-person, comprehensive eye exam between the ages of 3 and 5 to prevent or diagnose any condition that may have long-term effects. 
3. School-age children (6 to 18 years) should receive a comprehensive exam before starting first grade and annually thereafter. 

Undiagnosed eye problems can affect children’s learning 

Eye and vision disorders can lead to problems in a child’s normal development, school performance, social interactions, engagement in athletics, and self-esteem. Vision disorders that occur in childhood may manifest as problems well into adulthood, affecting an individual’s level of education, employment opportunities, and social interactions. This is why it’s important to have a relationship with your doctor of optometry and schedule annual, in-person, comprehensive eye exams during childhood.  

The rise of screen time is impacting children’s eye health 

Children are generally spending more hours indoors using computers and digital devices for extended periods, which can be extremely taxing on the visual system and have long-term consequences for vision and learning. As a result, myopia has nearly doubled over the last generation. While it’s impossible to avoid screens altogether, it’s recommended to ensure your children are taking adequate screen breaks, utilizing the 20-20-20 rule and spending time outside so eyes are trained to focus on long-distance objects as well. 

Back-to-school resources for doctors of optometry 

The AOA has developed a trove of resources to help eye care professionals educate and inform their patients about children’s vision health. Members can access back-to-school videos, social content, customizable press releases, and more in the Children’s Vision section of the Educate Your Community page.