More Than 2,500 Students Screened as School Vision Programme Identifies Children Needing Follow-Up

More than 2,500 students at 24 schools have received vision screenings through a programme led by the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs in partnership with Trinidad Eye Hospital.

As of September 23, approximately 2,567 students had been screened. About 11 per cent did not meet the initial screening criteria and have been identified for further optometric or refraction assessment.

The screenings have flagged concerns including astigmatism, short-sightedness, eye misalignment and dry eye. A small number of students have also been identified for further investigation of changes involving the optic disc or macula, including possible paediatric glaucoma.

The Ministry stressed that a screening result is not a diagnosis. Children who need additional assessment will be referred for follow-up to determine whether treatment or other care is required.

Participation has ranged from about 50 per cent at some schools to full participation at others. The average participation rate is now approximately 75 per cent.

Health Minister Michael Joseph said early identification could help prevent vision problems from going unnoticed and affecting a child’s experience at school.

“Good vision is fundamental to a child’s ability to learn, participate and thrive,” Joseph said. “Through this partnership, we are bringing screening closer to our students and creating opportunities to identify concerns that may otherwise go unnoticed.”

Screenings are scheduled to continue at J.T. Ambrose, Liberta and Sea View Farm primary schools on Friday, September 25; Baptist Academy Primary and Foundation Mixed Primary on Monday, September 28; Island Academy, New Bethel SDA Academy, Minoah Magnet Academy and Tabernacle Academy on Tuesday, September 29; and Seventh-day Adventist Primary and St. John’s Lutheran on Wednesday, September 30.

The Ministry urged parents and guardians to ensure their children take part when screening is offered and to follow through on any recommended referrals.