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Eye health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. A routine eye test is quick, painless, and provides valuable insights into your vision and general health.
Held annually on April 7th, World Health Day marks the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. It serves as a global reminder of the importance of health while spotlighting key issues that need attention. Since 1950, each World Health Day has focused on a specific theme to drive meaningful change.
This Year’s Theme: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures
The 2024 theme shines a light on maternal and newborn health, highlighting the urgent need for improved care. According to WHO, nearly 300,000 women lose their lives due to pregnancy or childbirth complications each year, while over 2 million newborns do not survive their first month. With greater awareness and collaboration, we can work towards better health outcomes for mothers and babies worldwide.
This World Health Day, the focus is on improving healthcare for mothers and children—but it’s also a great opportunity to check in on your family’s overall health. Routine health check-ups, including eye tests, are often put off due to busy schedules, yet they play a vital role in detecting underlying conditions early. Regular eye exams go beyond just assessing vision—they can help identify potential health concerns before they become serious.
The good news? Medicare helps make these essential eye tests more accessible, with many appointments bulk billed for eligible cardholders. Use this annual health reminder to prioritise your loved ones’ well-being and book an eye test for your family today.
While certain eye conditions become more common with age, vision problems can affect children too, potentially impacting their development. Conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and myopia (short-sightedness) can lead to long-term challenges if not addressed early.
Young children may not always realise they have vision difficulties, which is why regular eye exams are crucial. Early detection allows for timely intervention, helping to ensure clear vision and healthy development.
Myopia is on the rise in Australia, largely due to increased screen time and close-up tasks at school and home. Children having trouble seeing the whiteboard or following movement in sports may be showing early signs of myopia. That’s why innovative solutions like MiYOSMART lenses have been a game-changer in slowing myopia progression.
Designed to fit standard glasses frames, these advanced lenses offer a comfortable and effective way to manage myopia in children. To learn more about myopia control and whether MiYOSMART is right for your child, speak with an independent optometrist at your nearest Island Optical location.
Clear vision doesn’t always mean healthy eyes. Many conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Regular eye tests are essential for detecting these silent threats before they cause lasting damage.
For children, eye exams play a crucial role in preventing long-term vision problems that could affect learning and development. Experts recommend children have their first eye test before starting school, with regular check-ups every few years—or as advised by their optometrist.
Early detection leads to better outcomes. Book an eye test today and explore our article on common eye diseases for more insights.
Medicare helps make eye care more accessible by covering the cost of many routine eye exams. Eligibility depends on age:
However, vision changes don’t always follow a schedule. If you notice any issues, such as blurriness, double vision, floaters, or flashes of light, don’t wait—schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Medicare allows for additional tests when necessary, so speak to our friendly team to find out more.
To check your eligibility or book an appointment, visit our Hobart or Launceston locations or call on one of the numbers below:
HOBART (03) 6231 3640
LAUNCESTON (03) 6331 1008
Optometrists tailor their exams based on your individual eye health needs. While many tests are bulk-billed, some advanced assessments may incur additional fees—your optometrist will always inform you beforehand.
Common tests include:
Additionally, optometrists can assist with ophthalmology referrals, Fitness to Drive assessments, employment-related vision testing (e.g., aviation and Navy requirements), and provide support for DVA, Centrelink, and Vision Australia services.
Your optometrist is your first line of defence for any eye-related concerns—don’t hesitate to ask about additional screenings or personalised care.
World Health Day focuses on maternal and newborn health, but its message of prioritising well-being applies to everyone. Taking care of your eyesight is a simple yet important step towards lifelong health.
Schedule an appointment at Island Optical today—visit our Hobart or Launceston clinics or book online.
