The association conducted a survey of parents where 89% said they believed vision screenings would detect eye problems in children. The AOA said this is untrue.
With one in 10 children estimated at risk from an undiagnosed vision problem, the AOA said comprehensive eye exams are a must for young children. They noted a child could have perfect 20/20 vision, but could still suffer from an eye issue that simple screening would not detect.
The association noted undiagnosed eye problems would make it harder for children to succeed in school and could lead to permanent vision problems later in life.
The AOA recommends that children visit an optometrist after six months, again at three year’s old and annually thereafter.
Children now have the benefit of yearly comprehensive eye exams through age 18 thanks to the Pediatric Essential Health Benefit in the Affordable Care Act.
To learn more about children’s vision, visit www.aoa.org.