What is a Vision Screening Test?

A vision screening test is a simplified version of an eye exam that is designed to detect vision problems early on. Usually, if any kind of eye problem is detected, a referral is made to a qualified ophthalmologist or optometrist who will conduct a comprehensive eye exam.

 Eye health is important at all stages of life, however, vision screening tests are mostly conducted on children, in schools or at GPs surgery, rather than an specialised eye clinic. This allows early identification of a range of eye conditions which can then be dealt with by qualified professionals.

 Here, we explore what’s involved in a vision screening test, what to look out for, and when to see a specialist eye doctor. Read on to learn more.

 

What do they do in a vision screening?

A vision screening test usually consists of three main elements, each of which is used to determine a different area of eye health. They include:

• Visual Acuity Testing

Visual acuity testing requires both reading ability and cooperation, and so is generally only suitable for older children and adults. The test asks the patient to identify letters and shape on an eye chart from a distance of 20 feet. Covering one eye at a time can help to identify eye problems in wither the left or right eye.

• Eye and Pupil Inspection 

This type of test is suitable for all ages, as it requires not cooperation or comprehension skills. Both the shape and colour of the eye are assessed, usually with a pen light. Both pupils should be the same size and react in the same way when the light is shone into them, becoming smaller as the eye reacts to the light.

• Photoscreening 

Using a special camera, photo screening identifies eye problems like refractive errors and other ocular abnormalities.

• Colour Blindness Test

This test checks for potential colour blindness, usually in children. The patient is shown a picture of coloured numbers or symbols on a background of multicoloured dots. If the numbers or symbols are invisible, then the patient has a form of colour blindness.

 

 What are the normal results of a vision screening?

Normal results of a vision screening test are simply presented as no apparent problems, however, since these tests are simple and rudimentary, a patient may still need to see a qualified optometrist or optician later in life.

 

What eye diseases are screened for?

Vision screening tests differ from more complex eye tests in that they only look for potential symptoms of a range of eye diseases and abnormalities. Some of the most common diseases and eye conditions that are screened for include:

• Amblyopia — Poor vision in one eye, sometimes known as “lazy eye”, caused by a problem with how the brain and eye work together.

• Strabismus — Known as “cross eyes” or “wall eyes”, this condition cause one or both eyes to look in different directions.

• Astigmatism — Generally blurry vision which makes it difficult to see at night.

• Myopia (short sighted) — This condition makes seeing at distance difficult and objects appear blurry.

• Hyperopia (far sighted) — This condition makes seeing close-up diffifcult and object appear blurry,

 

What equipment is used in a vision screening test?

A broad range of vision screening equipment is available to help aid the test and generate measurable results. Distance charts, Ishihara Colour Blindness Tests, pinhole occluders, and electroretinography can all be used within vision screening.  

You’ll find a comprehensive range of vision screening equipment at Medshop, with dedicated tools and kits for children too. Explore the range today and ensure your school or clinic has the right equipment to catch vision problems at an early age. Additionally, check out the blog for more information on a broad range of healthcare and medical topics.