The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is working with the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Optometrists to continue administration of the organization’s Eye See Eye Learn Program. The Provincial Government is continuing funding of $150,000 to make the program accessible for children attending Kindergarten in the upcoming school year.
The Eye See Eye Learn Program, which first launched in December 2020, is designed to enable children to overcome potential barriers to eye exams. Under this program, children attending Kindergarten in September 2023 are eligible for financial support towards a comprehensive eye examination from an optometrist and eyeglasses.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Optometrists delivers the program in cooperation with participating optometrists, funding provided by the Department of Health and Community Services, and eyeglasses donated by the Essilor Vision Foundation Canada.
Currently, there are 63 Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Optometrists members practicing in the province, increasing coverage and allowing more patients to be seen in a timely manner.
The program continues to be successful year after year. Between April 2023 and March 2023, 892 students have had a full comprehensive eye exam under the program. Learn more about the Eye See Eye Learn Program.
Quotes
“By providing comprehensive eye examinations to all Kindergarten-aged children in the province, our government is helping to remove potential financial barriers to eye exams, and contributing to a positive learning experience and improved quality of life.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“The NLAO appreciates the support of Government in supporting our Eye See Eye Learn Program for kindergarten age children. Approximately 80 per cent of learning is visual and approximately 20 per cent of preschool children may have a vision problem. Undiagnosed vision problems can affect a child’s development, school performance, self-esteem, and social interactions. Regular comprehensive eye exams by a Doctor of Optometry are crucial in order to get a complete picture of a child’s eye health and vision. Having this exam before school starts can help identify potential problems before they affect a child in school.”
Dr. Rachel Gardiner
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Optometrists
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