Delivering eye care to homeless and marginally housed populations during the COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study.
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ABSTRACT: Objective
Homeless and marginally housed populations experience a higher prevalence of visual impairment relative to the general population. The aim of this pilot study is to present a novel model for conducting ocular screening clinics for homeless individuals during a pandemic and to describe the status of ocular health in this population during this time.Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 3 outdoor tent-based ocular screening clinics were held in a park in Toronto. Most participants were recruited from local shelters, but additional spots were allocated for homeless individuals on a drop-in basis. Prior to enrolment, each participant underwent COVID-19 screening via a questionnaire and temperature measurement. Those who screened negative received a comprehensive eye examination, including vision testing, dilated fundus examination, and autorefraction.Results
Eleven individuals completed all assessments. The mean age of participants was 54.5 years, and 11 of the participants were male. Visual impairment was found in 5 individuals. Refractive error via pinhole testing was found in 1 patient. Ocular pathology in this sample was found in 4 participants. Two patients required a referral to an ophthalmologist. From a psychosocial perspective, 4 participants reported significant difficulties.Conclusions
This novel tent-based ocular screening program provides a viable option for screening in a pandemic.
SUBMITTER: Slomovic J
PROVIDER: S-EPMC8418907 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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