Near-Vision Screenings Law for Washington Students

YAKIMA, Wash., March 26, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Washington Vision Therapy Center is reminding students and parents of the new law requiring near-vision screening for the state's young students. This screening is required for students in kindergarten and grades 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7. Unlike the typical test for distance vision, it is meant to catch a variety of problems related to vision at the typical distance for reading.

For many years, students have been screened for distance vision using simple tests. However, distance vision is used comparatively rarely in school learning situations. Students must be able to read their textbooks, workbooks, and even computer screens in order to glean the full amount of information they are supposed to learn.

"Many kids who have near-vision problems end up being diagnosed as dyslexic or as suffering from other forms of learning problems. While this may be the correct course of action for some of these students, many actually have a much simpler problem: they can't see what they're trying to read," Dr. Benjamin Winters, Yakima optometrist and a major proponent of the new law, explained.

At a minimum the children are now required not only to pass the distance vision letter chart, but also a near vision letter chart.  However, the law does allow for additional testing which is needed to detect many of the vision problems that affect school performance.  “For instance, many children suffer from words that double and blur after sustained reading.  However, initially their vision is normal, so other tests are needed to see if vision problems exist,” stated Dr. Winters. The new law also gives school nurses and school administrators the ability to refer to vision care providers if they suspect the child has vision problems even if they pass the vision chart tests.      

For many, the appropriate treatment is simply to get glasses for vision correction. However, problems not related to basic visual acuity, such as depth perception issues or double vision, are often treated with vision therapy, akin to physical therapy for the eyes. This type of treatment typically involves eye exercises and other activities meant to strength the connections between the eyes and brain. It is also used to help the eyes work together.

“School Districts have already approached us in helping consult and advise them in implementing the new changes,” Dr. Winters shares.  “We are here to help.  In the end, it is about more children getting the vision help they need, which means more children succeeding in school, having improved self-esteem, and a better prospect for their future.“

About Washington Vision Therapy Center

Washington Vision Therapy Center is a provider of therapies for those who need more than glasses to correct their vision problems. They have offices in Yakima, Kennewick, and Spokane, WA. Additional information can be accessed on their website at http://wavtc.com/ .

Washington Vision Therapy Center (509) 654-9256