Notes
Slide 13 BAREFOOT OPTOMETRY
Dr. Erik Weissberg of the New England College of Optometry believes that transferring knowledge to the indigenous people of underdeveloped countries will improve the efficiency of VOSH missions
Barefoot Optometry is an outgrowth of studying data collected over three years of VOSH missions to Nicaragua. It shows that 40% of the patients were prescribed simple hyperopic eyeglasses. His idea is to train local people to perform simple eye tests and prescribe spherical eyeglasses. If certain criterions were not met then patients would be referred to a VOSH mission. Community leaders of Mozonte, are enthused about the possibilities of helping their people see well. If this program succeeds, Dr. Weissberg concludes that the number of VOSH missions needed for the region would be reduced and surgical referrals increased. Professor Bruce Moore initiated a primitive version of Barefoot Optometry. He trained Wiiliams College undergraduates to conduct the first program in Nicaragua. It showed enough promise for Dr. Weissberg to continue its development. Cost effective materials and a training manual will be provided. Part one of the study will be presented to at the A.A.O. meeting December, 2004.
If you wish further information contact Dr Eric Weisberg. WeissbergE@ncopost.ne-optometry.edu
