3 MIN. READ
When students fidget in front of a computer, consistently lose their place while reading aloud or frequently ask to be sent to the school nurse for a headache, teachers often take notice. But even the most astute teachers may view these behaviors as signs of ADHD, anxiety, slow reflexes or simply the desire to be excused from classwork. To eyecare professionals, however, these strongly suggest that a child may have a vision problem beyond just being nearsighted or farsighted.
Conditions such as myopia, astigmatism, eye-muscle coordination, dry eye and peripheral vision problems are common in young children, especially those who spend lots of time on a computer or other device. But these conditions often go undetected during school vision screenings. Children need comprehensive annual eye exams like those included in a Vision Care Direct plan to keep their eyes healthy.
Sight-related issues can resemble other conditions
Studies have shown that up to 75% of standard school screenings miss many of the vision issues children are prone to, providing less than 4% of the testing necessary for a comprehensive eye exam. Factor in that many vision problems are mistaken for behavioral or developmental issues, and these conditions can go undiagnosed for years. The result? Children can face academic and social challenges that can have long-term impacts. Parents need to recognize that regular eye exams performed by a licensed optometrist can make a big difference in their children’s eye health.
Help parents see the light
The convenience of a free school vision screening is understandably appealing to parents. But many of them find too much comfort in the fact that their child passed the school screening, which is designed only to indicate whether a child’s vision needs further examination. Children will benefit greatly when you help their parents understand how vital an annual eye exam is, especially if you point out the connection between good vision and good school performance.
Some vision care plans make it difficult for parents to afford not only the plan but the eye care visit. Parents are often faced with high out-of-pocket costs at the time of service that go beyond their copay. This is one reason so many rely on school screenings, and they need to know that a better option is available.
Vision Care Direct of Oklahoma offers vision plans with multiple options to fit a variety of budgets, including exam-only coverage. Owned and operated by doctors since 2006, Vision Care Direct is not an insurance company and is not vertically aligned with any manufacturers or retail locations. Instead, we offer state-approved pre-paid plans that focus on whole-family care, not profitability.
Vision Care Direct of Oklahoma offers a Broker Partner Program with resources to help you build your business, free marketing dollars based on groups you sell to, and leads for new accounts from our doctors (providers). Most importantly, as a broker partner, you can feel confident that you are selling a vision plan, backed by doctors, that empowers parents to provide comprehensive eye care to their children.
To learn more, download our white paper and sign up to view a Broker Partner Webinar presented by our CEO.
