One in 10 children are at risk from undiagnosed eye and vision problems, which, if undetected, can lead to permanent vision impairments, developmental delays and in rare cases, life-threatening health risks.
To promote infant vision and eye health and protect the children of Iowa, Gov. Chet Culver has declared Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27 as InfantSEE Week in Boone and in the surrounding areas.
During InfantSEE Week, 28 doctors of optometry in the Des Moines area will be donating their time to provide no-cost comprehensive eye and vision assessments for infants between six and 12 months of age. This effort is part of a national public health program offered by the American Optometric Association, called InfantSEE.
At the local level, two optometrists including Dr. Jim Barker at McFarland Eye Center, 718 Story St., and Dr. Casey Roelfs at Boone Vision Center, 621 Story St., are taking part in the voluntary initiative.
Dr. Jim Barker can be reached at McFarland Eye Center at 432-2020 and Dr. Casey Roelfs can be reached at the Boone Vision Center at 432-2973 for appointments through the InfantSEE program during the course of this week.