**NOTICE (October 17th, 2024): MEC is currently seeking optometrist(s) to join our team. Please expect changes. Updates to come soon. If you have questions, please email mec@ccbnational.net directly**

The Mobile Eye Clinic (MEC) is designed to bring registered optometrists directly into the community to deliver eye exams, making eye care more accessible for everyone—from adults, children to seniors. We aim to prevent vision loss through early detection of eye diseases, providing a crucial service to populations who may otherwise face barriers to care.

Did you know?

• Vision loss is the most-feared disability
• Vision loss costs Canadians $15.8 billion a year
• Over 1.2 million Canadians live with vision loss, and 75% of vision loss is treatable or preventable

How does the Mobile Eye Clinic (MEC) work?

Once clinic day(s) are confirmed, MEC staff will schedule appointments for eligible patients. Consent forms, basic eye health history, and intake questions will be completed either in advance or on the clinic day itself. MEC will bring portable optometry equipment to the location, whether it’s a school, retirement home, or community centre, prior to the scheduled clinic.

On the clinic day(s), with the combined efforts of MEC staff, optometrists, and volunteers, eligible patients will receive comprehensive eye exams. Prescriptions for glasses or medications will be provided if necessary. When required, the patient’s parent, Power of Attorney, or guardian will receive all relevant information, including prescriptions and recommendations for follow-up care or referrals.

Currently, the CCB and optometrists are developing and testing a prototype Mobile Eye Clinic, with plans to expand the MEC across Canada. So far, clinics have been successfully held in elementary schools and long-term care residences throughout Eastern Ontario.

How can I get Mobile Eye Clinic (MEC) services?

If you are part of a school, community center, retirement home, or another eligible facility, we encourage you to reach out to us for Mobile Eye Clinic services. Please note that planning and coordinating clinic days can require up to six months’ notice, so be sure to contact us early. To inquire about setting up a clinic or if you have any questions, email us at mec@ccbnational.net.

Why are eye exams in children important?

MEC has detected vision issues in nearly 30% of the children examined, many of whom were unaware of their condition. Detecting and treating vision problems early is crucial to a child’s academic and social success, as poor vision can lead to learning difficulties and social isolation.

Some vision disorders create inadequate eye coordination and reduced ability to focus, interfering with classroom performance. These conditions can cause blurred vision, eyestrain, headaches, and double vision when reading. Many children struggle unnecessarily, requiring extra time to complete assignments, or avoid activities that can strain the eyes like reading.

Additionally, as Canada’s population grows increasingly diverse, it is becoming more important to provide education and remove barriers to access. The MEC helps inform parents, including those who may be new to Canada or unfamiliar with the importance of early eye care, about the necessity of regular eye exams for their children. By bringing optometrists directly into schools and communities, the MEC ensures that all children, regardless of background, have access to essential eye health services.