The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, in collaboration with Trinidad Eye Hospital, continues to advance the National School Vision Screening Programme, with thousands of students screened and children identified for further eye examination and care.

As of October 16, 7,745 students had been screened, with 12.6 per cent recording a non-pass outcome, meaning approximately one in every eight children screened required further assessment. A total of 394 children were identified for cycloplegic refraction, while approximately 800 children are anticipated to require further examination during the programme’s clinical close-out phase.

Screening has also identified findings requiring specialist investigation, including cataracts, possible keratoconus, suspected glaucoma, strabismus and other ocular abnormalities. The Ministry notes that these are screening findings and do not necessarily represent confirmed diagnoses.

The final week of school screening runs from October 26 to 30, after which the programme will transition to clinical follow-up. A central Eye Examination Centre is planned to operate from November 5–14, focusing on further examinations, prescription confirmation, spectacle provision and specialist referrals, as required.

The programme highlights the importance of early identification of vision problems and ensuring children receive the appropriate care. The Ministry encourages parents and guardians to ensure that children referred for further assessment attend their scheduled appointments and complete the recommended follow-up.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: School Vision Screening Identifies Eye Conditions Requiring Further Assessment.