VISION READINESS IN THE UNITED-STATES-AIR-FORCE REVISITED

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of sub-standard visu al acuity in a sample of the diverse communities of the United States Air Force, In addition, mobility readiness (visual), ocular disease, t ime since last visual examination, and adherence to ocular requirement s per AFR 160-43 were assessed, Comprehensive eye examinations were pe rformed in the Optometry Clinic on 207 randomly chosen members schedul ed by Squadron Schedulers using random computer lists of personnel gen erated by Military Personnel Flight, Of the 207 individuals, 112 (54%) had not had a professional eye examination in the last 2 years, 51 (2 4%) were not mobility ready, 6 (3%) had inadequate visual acuity per A FR 160-43, and 4 (1.9%) had ocular disease. The study reinforces the c oncept that comprehensive, periodic ocular examinations should be perf ormed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist on all active duty members to ensure that they see properly to perform assigned duties, that memb ers on mobility have required optical materials to be deployment ready , and that members who develop ocular disease are identified in a time ly manner.