title: Barriers to attending an eye examination after vision screening referral within a vulnerable population.
abstract: Half of high-risk, uninsured/underinsured individuals identified through vision screening as needing eye exams do not attend. Patients who attended vision screening and were referred for an exam but did not attend that exam were contacted and asked whether they were interested in receiving a free complete eye exam at an offsite center within three blocks of the clinic. Those who agreed were asked why they did not attend their original appointment and what would make it easier to attend. Primary reasons for missing appointments included forgetting (34%), lacking transportation (36%), and scheduling conflicts (26%). Nearly one quarter (24%) stated they could not afford transportation. Findings demonstrate transportation is a key barrier to eye care services. Current eye care delivery can be improved by addressing barriers to attendance in this context. Alternative delivery models should be examined to identify methods for better reaching underserved target populations.
authors: Emily W
authors: EW
authors: Gower
authors: Emily
authors: E
authors: Silverman
authors: Sandra D
authors: SD
authors: Cassard
authors: Sherill K
authors: SK
authors: Williams
authors: Kira
authors: K
authors: Baldonado
authors: David S
authors: DS
authors: Friedman
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017057:Medically Uninsured; D008875:Middle Aged; D009820:Ohio; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult