Low vision assistants are critically needed to fill the manpower shortage in low vision care if complete services are to be available to all visually impaired persons. It is important that formal training programs provide these paraprofessionals with the knowledge basic to low vision care. Assistants must be qualified to perform at least half of the necessary diagnostic procedures, take case histories, train the patient to use the low vision aid and provide follow-up care, write reports, and make referrals to other agencies when needed. Professionals and paraprofessionals work as a team toward improved low vision care.
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