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Community Corner

New England College of Optometry Joins Children's Vision Advocacy Day At The State House

Dr. Kara Gerger, Pediatric Resident at New England College of Optometry, conducts a vision screening for Jenna Watson as a part of Children's Vision Advocacy Day held recently at the Massachusetts State House.

Organized by Children's Vision Massachusetts, the event drew more than 200 committed optometrists, ophthalmologists, educators, public health officials, nurses, pediatricians, family physicians, parents and advocates. 

As part of the day's activities, representatives from Boston Medical Center, New England College of Optometry, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Children's Hospital provided free vision screenings for local children in the Grand Hall of Flags. 

The coalition later met with legislators to seek support for S.1672, An Act Relative To the Save Our Children's Sight Fund, sponsored by Senator Thomas Kennedy and designed to build a system of coordinated eye health services for children across the state.  The initiative would be funded with monies voluntarily paid through consumer donations via Registry of Motor Vehicle applications. 

Research shows that more than 250,000 Massachusetts children have a vision problem. With gaps in access, education and communication in the current system, it is estimated than 2000 - 3000 children will develop a condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and treated early.

The Act is modeled on highly successful programs currently in place in Georgia and Ohio. 

(Photo: Frank Curran Photography)

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