Jan. 11, 2017
CareCredit’s Caring Communities Program has provided a $25,000 grant to Optometry Cares – The American Optometric Association Foundation’s InfantSEE program. This marks the fifth consecutive year the company has contributed to InfantSEE.
According to Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation, vision disorders are the fourth most common disability in the U.S. and the most prevalent handicapping condition during childhood. A trained optometrist can examine infant eye development as early as six months of age. These early assessments help identify developing eye conditions and diseases, allowing for treatment and possible prevention of life-long vision complication.
More than 3,600 InfantSEE optometrists examine an estimated 10,000 infants annually for normal eye development and to intervene early if necessary. To date, more than 130,000 babies have been seen and 10 percent have been identified for greater concerns and follow-up.
“We are deeply honored that CareCredit continues to recognize the importance of good vision for all citizens, and provides generous financial support so that our outreach can be expanded to provide education about the need for regular eyecare for children,” says Rebecca Hildebrand, Director, Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation.
CareCredit’s grant will be used to expand awareness of the InfantSEE program among new parents through print advertising, brochures, signage and displays, as well as online efforts.
