Massachusetts DDS Vision Care Guidelines
for Individuals with Intellectual Disability
- Eye Examination: ALL, including those with legal or total blindness, should be under an active vision care plan and eye examination schedule based on recommendations from an eye specialist (ophthalmologist or optometrist). Refer to eye specialist if new ocular signs and/or symptoms develop, including changes in vision/behavior. Annual comprehensive eye exam for patients with diabetes.
- Glaucoma Assessment: Comprehensive eye examination by age 18-22. Follow up eye exam every 2-3 years until age 39, every 1-2 years thereafter. More frequent eye exams for higher risk patients per vision care plan.
- Preventative Health Screening Recommendations
These recommendations were adapted from the Massachusetts Health Quality Partnership's 2003 Preventive Health Standards to address the specific needs of people with intellectual disabilities. The Guidelines are reviewed regularly, most recently in 2019.
