Eye Health, COVID-19, and the Occupational Health Professional: Round Table

Abstract

Background: Eye health has garnered increased attention since the COVID-19 pandemic. This Round Table explored the impact mask wearing, delays in eye examinations, and increased screen time have on vision and ultimately the worker. Methods: Leading experts in the areas of occupational health, risk management, eye health, and communication were identified and invited to participate in a Round Table discussion. Questions posed to experts were based on literature that addressed eye health, such as mask wearing, communication and managing expectations when accessing professional eye health appointments, and increased screen time. Findings: Experts agreed that eye health considerations must be in place. These considerations should address not only clinical care of the patient but ways to protect workers from occupational injury associated with the eye. Conclusion/Application to practice: The occupational health professional is a key resource for assessment and training that pertains to eye health.

An analysis of health policy programmes on eye health implemented by Local Government Units (LGUs) in Poland, 2015–2023

“…In children, eye examinations are mostly offered within childhood screening programs [7]. In adults, eye examinations are part of the occupational medicine tests [8]. Moreover, eye examinations may be offered as a part of voluntary screening as well as health services offered by central or local government.…”