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Efforts to improve access to vision care in Montana and around the world are growing.
In Montana, nearly half of children from ages 6 to 17 do not get yearly eye exams. Globally, nearly 1 billion people go without vision care, with many lacking basic equipment like eyeglasses, according to Good Vision USA.
Matt Gianino, executive director of the nonprofit, said there are many links between poverty and a lack of vision care, adding the cycle can start early in a child's life. He pointed out it can also have a harsh effect on adults.
"They have a difficult time finding employment," Gianino noted. "When they do find it, retaining employment because of under performance, because of visual issues."
Gianino cited a World Bank study showing vision impairment causes a total of $411 billion in lost productivity around the world. Work is underway to address this, with many advocacy groups now highlighting the need for accessible vision care, including the World Health Organization and the National Association for the Prevention of Blindness.
Locally, Montana Medicaid now provides eyeglasses to adults 21 years of age and older each year, along with an eye exam.
Gianino emphasized Good Vision USA and other groups are creating sustainable infrastructure using local expertise and staff to improve access to vision services, cutting the costs of bringing in supplies and people for temporary assistance. He added it is the health intervention with one of the biggest returns on investment, with every $1 invested in vision care resulting in a $28 economic return.
"We're talking about a highly scalable and impactful way to make a huge, life-changing, immediate difference in the lives of individuals around the world," Gianino asserted.
GoodVision USA contributes to our fund for reporting on health issues.
