Optimizing eye health

Children entering kindergarten can receive a free eye exam and a free pair of eye glasses if needed thanks to the “eye see, eye learn” program.

The program focuses on the prevention, early detection and management of eye and vision problems.

“Children often don’t complain of vision problems or, in some cases, are not even aware of them. With 80 per cent of classroom learning being through seeing, and with more time being spent on digital devices at a younger age, it is important to a child’s learning that we identify any potential problems at an early age so that they can see properly,” says Jayne Toombs, optometrist and president of the Prince Edward Island Association of Optometrists.

“We believe it is important that all children receive a comprehensive eye examination when entering school. It can give them the start they need to reach their full learning potential.”

Eye exams can identify health problems and conditions such as a turned or lazy eye. These conditions may be successfully treated if they are identified early in a child’s life.

Children entering or currently enrolled in kindergarten this year can take advantage of the “eye see, eye learn” program until June 30, 2018. Parents can call their own optometrist to book their child’s appointment for an eye exam, or visit www.peioptometrists.ca to find one nearest them.

Health P.E.I. covers any costs associated with the eye exam not covered in whole or in part by the family’s private insurance. Families without private insurance will have the entire cost of the eye exam covered. Free eye glasses are provided to those in need by the P.E.I. Association of Optometrists.

Since the program began in 2015, nearly 1,800 Island children have access the program, of which 23 per cent were recommended for eye glasses. Approximately 40 per cent of families who have accessed program did not have private insurance coverage.