Pasco Reporter

Earlier today, U.S. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12-R) and Marc Veasey (TX-33-D) introduced the Early Detection of Vision Impairments in Children (EDVI) Act in Washington, DC. The EDVI Act aims to establish grants for states and communities to enhance children’s vision and eye health through screenings, early interventions, and coordinated systems of care. Despite numerous public health programs supporting early childhood development, including children’s hearing and oral health, there is currently no federally funded program in the United States that specifically addresses children’s vision or promotes a cohesive system of eye health for children.

“As an American who has suffered from poor vision since childhood, I have a first-hand understanding of how critical early detection and treatment is when it comes to ensuring that all children have the best possible start in life,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “Our landmark bill will ensure all children get the screening and care they need at the right age by creating the first-ever federally funded program to address children’s vision and eye health."

Rep. Veasey, the newly appointed Democratic co-chair of the Vision Caucus, added: “Children’s vision and eye health is a critical aspect of a child’s healthy development that has been overlooked for far too long.” He stressed on the role healthy vision plays in each child’s performance in school - when a child cannot see, their education suffers.

Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness emphasized: “More than one in every four children in America, or roughly 19.6 million, have a vision problem requiring treatment.” He highlighted that access to education, screenings, examinations, diagnosis, and treatment are crucial to preventing vision loss.

Dr. Stacy Ayn Lyons from National Center for Children’s Vision and Eye Health underscored that early detection of eye problems can improve treatment effectiveness and ensure better outcomes for children.

Michael Repka from American Academy of Ophthalmology applauded the efforts of Rep. Bilirakis and Rep. Veasey for working to provide states and communities with resources to expand and improve vision screening programs.

The EDVI Act also addresses the fact that state laws to address children’s vision vary widely in approaches and often lack protocols for referrals to eye care providers. The Act will enable the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to award grants for states and local communities to implement early detection approaches, identify barriers in access to eye care, raise awareness about early interventions, establish a coordinated public health system for vision health, and develop state-based data collection systems.

A broad spectrum of public health organizations support the legislation, including: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Academy of Optometry, American Academy of Pediatrics, among others.