PBNC’s Children’s Vision Screening Training and Certification Program is excited to announce that we can now offer a virtual training experience for school staff, volunteer vision screeners, and primary care providers so that they can conduct screenings in schools and as part of the well-child visit. We have a synchronous program already in action, and are launching an asynchronous, self-paced version in the coming weeks.
Vision screening is one of many services that meet critical needs of children and is an essential service to eliminate poor vision and eye problems as a barrier to academic success and overall development. Endorsed by NC Department of Health and Human Services, PBNC’s Children’s Vision Screening Certification program aims to ensure that screenings are conducted in a consistent and uniform manner using evidence based and age-appropriate screening tools. Without training and certification, children and students participate in vision screening with different tools and procedures depending on where they live, which schools they attend, or primary care provider they visit. This leads to potential under-referrals and inconsistencies that can drive inequalities in children’s vision, eye care, and eye health across the state.
PBNC’s live virtual training is available immediately for school screeners and staff in primary care provider offices. While students are not in school, the well-child visit may be the only place a child receives a vision check making it even more important for PBNC to expand the school-aged children’s vision screening training program to primary care providers this year. School staff and volunteers are also able to access the virtual training now so that they will be equipped to conduct screenings in school as soon as students return. The program certifies screeners in the fundamentals of vision screening techniques, referral, and follow-up. Participants will receive a manual, vision screening charts, and sample referral materials. Persons passing performance criteria and a written test receive a certificate which qualifies them to perform vision screening for a period of 2 years.
To schedule a training session, click here.
