Now, with innovative technology, it takes just seconds to screen a child for several common vision problems. The Spot™ Vision Screener, a handheld electronic device, makes it quick and easy to analyze both of a child’s eyes at the same time. The screener can detect nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, eye alignment, cataracts, unequal pupil size and amblyopia, or lazy eye.
Better yet, each of Lake Health’s pediatric and family medicine practices has its own Spot Vision Screener, thanks to a generous grant from Lake Health’s Volunteer Auxiliary. As a result, hundreds of Lake Health pediatric patients have had their vision photoscreened during annual well-child visits since the technology was acquired in June 2019!
How it works
While holding the screening device three feet away, a nurse or health care provider aims it at the child’s face. Then, with one touch, a flash of light and a tweeting sound from the photoscreener draw the child’s momentary attention and eye contact for analysis.
“With a single click of the device we have an immediate result indicating whether a referral to a vision specialist is needed. Because the screening is done from a three-foot distance and without the need for physical contact, most children actually have no idea they just had their eyes tested,” says Bridget Combs, MD, a pediatrician with Lake Health Physician Group Pediatrics in Madison.
Vision exams using eye charts are a challenge for younger children because they rely on the patient’s accurate responses and cooperation. The advantages of the Spot Vision Screener are that little cooperation and no verbal feedback is required for testing and the screening can be completed in seconds. The technology is especially valuable when evaluating children who have trouble sitting still as well as those with cognitive problems or who can’t read an eye chart.
The child’s parent or guardian receives a printout of the results. If a vision concern is detected, it’s recommended the child be seen by an eye care specialist for further evaluation.
“Early detection is best when it comes to health issues, including the eyes. The goal is to ensure children are as healthy as possible and reach their full potential, and the Spot Vision Screener is a great tool to help us achieve that,” says Dr. Combs.
Meet the doctor
Bridget Combs, MD
Pediatrics
Office: Madison, 440-428-6225
