Ohio budget funds student eye exam program

Ohio's newly approved budget includes provisions for a statewide student eye exam program, the Ohio Student Eye Exam Program, referred to as OhioSEE. The program is designed to provide vision care services to kindergarten through third-grade students who do not pass vision screenings and do not have access to follow-up care.

The OhioSEE Program, administered by the Department of Health, aims to increase the completion rate of vision care referrals, expand student access to eye examinations, and provide eyeglasses to eligible students. Services covered may include vision screenings, eye examinations, and eyeglasses.

Sight for All United (SFAU), a Mahoning Valley organization, noted the OhioSEE program aligns with its existing vision care initiatives. SFAU has worked in the Mahoning Valley since 2016, providing screenings, eye exams, and glasses to students. The organization collaborates with Vision to Learn and local eye care professionals.

Dr. Sergul Erzurum, president of the SFAU board, stated that clear vision can affect a child's ability to read and learn. The OhioSEE program is expected to broaden access to vision care for K-3 students across Ohio.