The Vision Initiative works across Victoria at local and state levels to deliver activities that support the promotion of regular eye tests.
Project implemented: Since 2012
The Vision Initiative aims to prevent avoidable blindness and vision loss and address the impact of vision impairment across Victorian communities.
In Australia, around 90% of blindness & vision loss is preventable or treatable, if detected early; regular eye tests are key for early detection and treatment.
Working with state & local partners, ensuring integration into local health systems, regional ownership, meeting local needs.
Targeting 14 different areas where residents are identified at risk of vision loss due to risk factors in the community.
Building the capacity of pharmacists/GPs/practice nurses to identify & refer at-risk people to local eye care services early.
Targeting pple at risk: aged 40+, with diabetes, a family history of eye disease, smokers, and Aboriginal & CALD Communities
Reinforcing eye health messages through local media campaigns (TV, radio, print, online and social media).
The Vision Initiative (VI) three-tiered approach to health promotion provides an effective way of empowering people to take control of their eye health and have regular eye tests.
For results of the pilot projects conducted in four local government areas in 2012-15, please visit the Vision Initiative website where you can find details on the activities delivered by the program and the Vision Initiative end of program report 2012-15.
For further information regarding our portfolio of programs please access this here.
The Vision Initiative (VI) is a collaboration of state partner organisations from the health and eye health sectors. The VI is funded by the Victorian Government and managed by Vision 2020 Australia. It is the Victorian Government’s public health response to the National Framework for Action to Promote Eye Health and Prevent Avoidable Blindness and Vision Loss.
In 2012, the VI moved away from a singular state-wide approach to deliver eye health promotion programs to target local government areas where residents are at risk of eye disease.
In each area, the VI draws together health and eye health providers to deliver a coordinated and integrated response to improve eye health and vision care in communities most in need. These include pharmacists, GPs, practice nurses, optometrists, ophthalmologists, low vision and rehabilitation service providers, as well as local council, Primary Health Networks, Primary Care Partnerships and community organisations.
Consistent messages on the importance of regular eye tests are communicated to those at risk of eye disease using three powerful messengers: primary healthcare providers, the community and general awareness campaigns.