Introducing InfantSEE ® A Public Health Program for America’s Youngest Patients

One-time no-cost public health program provides eye care for infants ─for babies 6-12 months of age ─complements pediatrician well-baby vision screenings ─no cost regardless of income

Vision is Learned Most critical stages of vision development occur in the first year of life. Undetected vision problems can lead to permanent vision impairment.

Need for InfantSEE ® Potential for childhood vision problems is significant, yet manageable (when caught early) –1 in 30 will develop amblyopia –1 in 25 will develop strabismus –1 in 33 will show significant refractive error –Eye Diseases will be evident in 1 in 100 –Retinoblastoma – rare but possible (1 in 20,000)

Need for InfantSEE ® Vision development is an important part of child development Early child development is critical early in life: –1 st year - 50% of what we need to know for life is learned. –2 nd year- another 25% is learned –3 rd year and beyond- only 25% of life’s survival skills are added.

Pediatric clinical care guidelines recommend a basic eye screening as part of a well-baby health exam. –Red pupil reflex and eye alignment Studies show physicians do not consistently conduct pediatric vision screening during clinical visit. Only 14% of all children have had an eye exam prior to entering school. Infant Eye Care Background

Of 3-5 year olds seen by pediatricians, only 66% received a vision screening. Screening was not attempted on more than 60% of three-year-olds. Of children who failed a screening, 50% of the parents were unaware of the fact 2 months later. Child Eye Care Background

Comprehensive eye exams and vision screening programs should not be confused. –Each has different purpose, generates different results –Examinations are necessary even if screenings are done periodically Screenings vs. Examinations

An initial comprehensive eye and vision examination should take place: Between the ages of 6-12 months Again at age three Before a child starts school, and Every two years thereafter. AOA Recommendations for Exam Frequency

What will take place during the assessment? InfantSEE ® Assessment

Parental involvement is important in every facet of child’s life—including in learning to see. InfantSEE ® helps infants develop full vision potential with eye and vision assessments and patient education. Over 7300 AOA members volunteer as InfantSEE ® providers, representing all 50 states and D.C.