213253 Advocating for eye care services in community health centers: Needs assessment - Part I

Monday, November 9, 2009: 11:15 AM

Susan Primo, OD, MPH, FAAO , Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
  
The American Optometric Association Community Health Center Committee will present compelling information to inform public policy about the need to dramatically increase access to comprehensive eye care services on site at the nation's health centers. Demographic data of health center users suggest that millions may be at risk for preventable vision loss; yet a recent policy briefing survey conducted by The George Washington University reported that only about 20% of centers provide on-site eye and vision care. Policy changes are needed to confront and respond to disparities in access to vision services. Thus, this presentation will further inform attendees on how needed changes to public policy concerning comprehensive eye care services at health centers will contribute to an overall improved health status for health center users.

Learning Objectives:
1. Describe recent survey by the George Washington Survey assessing need for on-site eye services in community health centers (CHCs). 2. Explain results of survey including perceived barriers to developing on-site eye care at CHCs. 3. Discuss ways to overcome barriers including addressing factors due to: perceived lack of policy and financial support for the development of on-site eye care; lack of perceived need for on-site care; and lack of infrastructural support and technical assistance needed to accurately assess and determine the community need for eye and vision care.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: OD, MPH, Associate Professor
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Missing Health Services at Community Health Centers (jointly organized by the Vision Care and Community Health Planning and Policy Development sections)
See more of: Vision Care Section