Accuracy of school-based vision screening by teachers in Pakistan: a qualitative study

Main Objectives

• To explore the knowledge and competencies of teachers in carrying out visual acuity testing
• To investigate how visual acuity testing practices were applied
• To determine teachers’ motivations and attitudes towards carrying out school-based visual acuity testing

Summary

Although the school-based vision screening programme was well received and supported by the schools and health providers, a number of factors undermined the effectiveness and efficiency of the programme. They were: limited time allocated for training and practice; limited supervision and the lack of refresher training; trainers insufficiently experienced in training non-health staff; and teachers involved had many other responsibilities and could not allocate sufficient time to conduct the activity properly.