Ever wonder why booking a kid’s eye exam can feel like winning the lottery in some parts of the US? A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology has revealed a troubling trend: significant geographic gaps in access to pediatric eye specialists.
Here’s a snapshot of where pediatric eye care stands currently:
The Great Ophthalmologist Gap: Amazingly, 90% of counties lack a single pediatric ophthalmologist. This number hasn’t budged since last year.
Optometrists? It’s Even Worse: In 2023, a whopping 93.5% of counties lacked a single pediatric optometrist.
Urban vs. Rural Divide: Eye care deserts tend to be in rural areas, with city dwellers having nearly double the access to pediatric eye specialists.
Money Talks: Counties with higher median income were more likely to have pediatric eye specialists. This suggests that poverty plays a role in access to care.
The study also highlights an interesting overlap. Counties with a pediatric ophthalmologist were more likely to have at least one pediatric optometrist, but most of these counties still lacked one entirely.
What this means for optometrists: The need for pediatric eye care is clear. This study can be a springboard for advocacy efforts to improve access to vision care for children across the US. By working with policymakers and healthcare organizations, optometrists can play a crucial role in ensuring all kids have a shot at seeing the world clearly.
SOURCE: JAMA Ophthalmology