Amblyopia, a developmental vision problem that can result in monocular blindness, affects approximately 2% of the U.S. population. Sometimes called “lazy eye,” amblyopia can be treated successfully when detected in early childhood. Common treatment involves patching the stronger eye to encourage the brain to improve its connections to the weaker eye. However, compliance with patching treatment regimens can be especially trying on young children and their parents. Noncompliance may account for a significant proportion of vision loss due to this condition. Prevent Blindness America’s new amblyopia support program, The Eye Patch Club, is designed to encourage compliance among children and provide encouragement for parents. Families that enroll in the program receive a six-edition newsletter, classroom curriculum guide, compliance calendar and helpful hints magnet. A unique feature of the program is an online web forum for parents to share their experiences and provide peer support. Children especially enjoy the club’s friendly cartoon mascot, Patch the Dog. The program has been warmly received by pediatric eye doctors, parents and children alike. The Eye Patch Club provides a novel model for eye patient support.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Define amblyopia and describe its common treatments. 2. Recognize the barriers to compliance with amblyopia treatement. 3. Discuss strategies to encourage children's compliance and to assist parents in managing compliance problems. 4. List the components of The Eye Patch Club support program and apply this model to similar forms of eye patient support
Keywords: Vision Care, Patient Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Prevent Blindness America
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of Prevent Blindness America.