Virtual Learning Limits Access to School Vision Screenings

With many students across the country participating in virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, at-school vision screenings have been limited. These annual school-provided screenings play a crucial role in identifying and treating vision problems early on. While this adversely affects all students, those from low-income families are particularly disadvantaged. Dr. Joel Leffler, Pediatrix-affiliated pediatric ophthalmologist at Children’s Eye Care of North Texas in Plano, says parents who struggle more with economic hardship often lack access to these basic health examinations, even in pre-COVID times. “It is safe to assume that these at-risk children have even less access to essential services like vision screenings and assessments during the pandemic, as availability of health and community services are even more limited,” Leffler said.

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