[Aer-div07] FW: Low Vision List-Serve

[Jim Gandorf]

>From Steve Whittaker.

 

 

We organized our book around the issue maintaining a collaboration between
optometrists/ophthalmologists and therapists  You might refer to our book by
Slack publishers (Scheiman, Scheiman and Whittaker) . Introduction to low
vision rehabilitation:..) A free downloadable chapter relevant to this topic
is in the www.slack.com <http://www.slack.com/>  website.  

 

In a nutshell.  I do not recommend any optical device without a prescription
from an optometrist or ophthalmologist even if I make a recommendation for
purchase through a catalogue.  I also have an optometrist or ophthalmologist
sign off on my treatment plans.  If I recommend a device like a loupe or
hand held device, I call the optometrist and ask for a script for the
record.  With a good working relationship the paperwork can be handled
post-hoc.  This is a standard model of practice for adult medical rehab- a
physician authorizes treatment and signs off on any equipment paid for by
insurance.

 

There are very few optometrists nationwide who have diplomats in low vision.
A therapist anywhere can find a general optometrist-  all of whom have has
some training in low vision- most of whom have has clinical training.  Find
an optometrist who is trying to build a practice and who is willing to learn
more about low vision.  Refer your pts to this person for a refraction and
make sure they are willing and able to prescribe high near add, and mounted
telescopes.  They will welcome the referrals, and the opportunity to
dispense devices without the high rate of device returns and lengthy exams
that go-along with solo -low vision practitioners who work without
therapists.

 

Steve

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: aer-div07-bounces at lists.aerbvi.org
[mailto:aer-div07-bounces at lists.aerbvi.org] On Behalf Of Jim Gandorf
Sent: Thursday, September 20, 2007 11:51 AM
To: aer-div07 at lists.aerbvi.org
Subject: [Aer-div07] Low Vision List-Serve

 

This question recently came up on the O&M Division List Serve; I am cross
posting to the Low Vision List Serve for your input as well.

 

FYI, for everyone on the list serve to see your reply click "REPLY TO ALL"

 

 

Subject: Scope of Practice for LVT, VRT, O&M

 

I would like to ask you for some feedback about low vision aids recommenced
by VRT, LVT and O&M specialists.

 

According to ACVREP Certification Handbook "the CLVT shall work as part of
an interdisciplinary team with an ophthalmologist and or optometrist who
manages ocular health, provide the clinical low vision examination,
prescribes optical devices and approves treatment plans.".... What about
areas where low vision examination is not available???

 

 In Colorado field teachers (VRT,O&M,LVT)  introduce our clients to a
variety of low vision aids and let them make the choice of what meets their
needs. Doing so we use our best professional judgment.

 

What about other states? How do you handle this? 

 

It would be nice to have more clarification from ACVREP about scope of  work
for VRT, LVT, O&M  when and where clinical low vision examination is not
available. 

 

Thank you for your response.

 

Jadwiga Brown COMS, RT
Denver Metro Rehabilitation Office
2211 W Evans Ave Bldg A
Denver, CO 80223
Email: jadwiga.brown at state.co.us
Phone: (303) 866-3910
Fax: (303) 866-3419

 

 

Jim

 

==========================================

Jim Gandorf, CAE

Executive Director

AER

1703 N. Beauregard St., Ste 440

Alexandria, VA 22311

jgandorf at aerbvi.org

703-671-4500 ext 205

 

SAVE THE DATE!

 

AER International Conference 2008
Chicago: My AER Kind of Town
July 22-27, 2008 - Chicago Downtown Marriott

 

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