Objective:
The PlenOptika project aimed to enhance access to vision care for underserved, underrepresented, and stigmatized populations, specifically targeting individuals experiencing homelessness in and around the Valley of Maricopa County. The goal was to provide efficient and accurate vision assessments and deliver prescription eyewear to those who face significant barriers to traditional eye care services, thereby improving their visual health and overall quality of life.

Solution:
Zeihan Prohealth collaborated with PlenOptika to implement an autorefractor-based vision screening service tailored to the needs of this population. The key components of the solution included:

• Autorefractor Technology: Deployed PlenOptika’s autorefractor, a portable device designed for rapid and precise vision assessments. This technology enabled efficient screenings without the need for extensive clinical infrastructure.
• Mobile and Community-Based Clinics: Integrated the autorefractor into mobile clinics and community outreach events specifically targeting shelters, food pantries, and other locations frequented by individuals experiencing homelessness throughout Maricopa County.
• Prescription Eyewear Provision: Developed a streamlined process for placing orders for prescription eyewear based on autorefractor assessments. Eyewear was provided through partnerships with New Eyes for the Needy and Zenni Optical. Grant funding was secured to offset the cost of manufacturing, ensuring that the prescription eyewear was provided at no charge to the participants.
• Training and Capacity Building: Conducted training for healthcare providers and community workers on the use of the autorefractor and the management of vision screenings, ensuring effective deployment of the technology and high-quality service delivery.

Outcome:
The implementation of the autorefractor for vision screening and eyewear prescription yielded several significant outcomes:

1. Increased Access to Vision Care:

>Provided vision screenings to hundreds of individuals experiencing homelessness across Maricopa County. The mobile clinics and targeted outreach approach significantly increased access to eye care services for this vulnerable population.

2. Efficient Vision Assessments:

>Enabled rapid and accurate vision assessments using the autorefractor, reducing the time required for screenings and allowing a greater number of individuals to be served efficiently. This approach addressed high demand and minimized wait times.

3. Enhanced Eyewear Provision:

>Facilitated the distribution of prescription eyewear to participants, improving visual acuity and overall quality of life. Eyewear was manufactured through New Eyes for the Needy and Zenni Optical. Grant funding covered the cost of manufacturing, ensuring that all prescription eyewear was provided at no charge to the participants.

4. Community Empowerment:

>Engaged and trained local healthcare providers and community workers, equipping them with the skills needed to deliver effective vision care and extending their capacity to support the homeless population.

Impact:
The PlenOptika vision screening and eyewear prescription initiative had a profound and multifaceted impact:

1. Improved Visual Health:

>Significantly improved the visual health of individuals experiencing homelessness by providing timely vision assessments and access to prescription eyewear. Enhanced visual acuity contributed to better daily functioning and quality of life.

2. Reduced Barriers to Care:

>Addressed critical barriers to traditional eye care services, including financial constraints and lack of access to facilities. The mobile and community-based approach made vision care more accessible and acceptable for those experiencing homelessness.

3. Increased Awareness and Engagement:

>Raised awareness about vision health within the homeless community and promoted engagement with healthcare services. The initiative encouraged preventive care and highlighted the importance of addressing vision health needs.

4. Scalable Model for Future Initiatives:

>Demonstrated an effective model for integrating innovative technology into community health programs. The success of this project provides a scalable approach for similar initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities through technological advancements.

5. Enhanced Capacity of Local Providers:

>Strengthened the abilities of local healthcare providers and community workers, enhancing their skills and expanding their capacity to deliver comprehensive vision care to underserved populations.