Vision health program "good eye, god vision for everyone" in detecting refractive error among school children in Kudat, Sabah

Abstract

Purpose: To report the outcomes of the Vision Health Program in detecting refractive error among school children in Kudat, Sabah Methods: In phase I, selected teachers attended the theory and practical workshop regarding refractive error and vision screening. Their level of knowledge and skills in refractive error and vision screening before and after the workshop were assessed through a set of questionnaires. In phase II, teachers performed vision screening among students in their respective schools. Students who had failed the vision screening were referred to the University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Ophthalmology team for refraction and glasses prescribed (phase III). Results: A total number of 84 teachers from 48 schools were involved in the program. In phase I, prior to program, the knowledge of refractive error and the skills in vision screening among teachers was mainly moderate, 39 (46.4 %) and 33 (39.3%), respectively. After the program, the knowledge and the skills were improved to high level 53 (63.1 %) and 46 (54.8%), respectively. A total more than thousands of students were screened by the teachers at their respective schools. 250 students with visual impairment were referred for refraction. 140 (56%) had refractive errors and required glasses, whereas 6 (2.4 %) had strabismus Conclusion: The findings emphasize the importance of empowering teachers with knowledge and skills in vision screening to ensure early intervention of school children for better visual outcomes.