It’s no secret that the American Indians and Native Americans (AI/NA) population experiences some of the most pronounced healthcare disparities in the US. According to reports, one sector where this is very apparent is eye care. Despite the AI/NA demographic making up only 1.7% of the total US population, studies have found that this group reported higher incidences of ocular issues than White individuals. Specifically, AI/NA adults experienced more instances of refractive errors, diabetic eye diseases, blindness and low vision, injury, burns, orbital and external disease, and surgical complications.
That said, while the burden of bridging this gap really falls on government officials and health agency leaders, there are efforts you can make on your own to safeguard your ocular well-being. Here are some you can integrate into your daily life.
Look for specialized eyewear
Using standard sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses can help, but given that most AI/NA adults suffer from above-average vision errors, you may benefit from eyewear with more specialized features. This way, you’re providing more tailored correction and protection. For instance, since eye injuries are some of the most common complaints in AI/NA circles, you may want to look into safety glasses. These are made from polycarbonate materials, so they’re resistant to extreme temperatures, pressures, and corrosive materials. Brands like Stoggles even offer these with prescriptions so you can see clearly and safely.
Another option when it comes to specialized eyewear that the AI/NA population may find more valuable is eyeglasses with advanced hearing solutions. Nuance’s hearing aid glasses are the bridge between vision and hearing. Apart from offering lenses that can be tailored to your distance needs, these glasses have an invisible air-conduction hearing aid integrated into the frame arms. Using the app, they can be calibrated to suit your settings and preferences. Low-latency and beamforming tech ensure that users can enjoy clear vision and immersive sound. Given that AI/NA populations have up to four times the rate of hearing loss than other Americans, an accessible and multi-purpose solution like this can hit two birds with one stone.
Book regular eye exams
Prevention is always better than cure, and there’s no better way to maintain good eye health than regular exams. On average, ophthalmologists suggest undergoing a comprehensive eye exam once every year or every two years. Regular exams are integral because they not only help treat existing issues but also help your doctor note early symptoms or whether you’re at risk of anything in later life. For AI/NA populations, an exam may even help curb the risk of preventable blindness or diabetic eye diseases.
Thankfully, there are numerous ways to book an eye test. For one, major chain retailers like Target now offer affordable exams that you can schedule online. Alternatively, you can also try a health center run by the Indian Health Service (IHS). Although most of these centers do need improvements, a number are already being upgraded with vision care services included. One example is the Dilkon Medical Center in the Navajo Nation, which opened just last year. Since government agencies support these, fees are typically lower, too.
Consult with trained specialists
Surveys reveal that AI/NA adults have lower service claim rates. In layman’s terms, this means most adults were unable to successfully seek treatment that could improve eye care outcomes. Sadly, this is usually caused by various issues, including not having doctors with nuanced training. As a result, misdiagnoses and miscommunications can occur.
Such was the case with contributor Rhonda Tree Mangan. After a prolonged cycle of visiting doctors and not getting better, Rhonda was put on several treatment methods that didn’t work. At one point, she even visited the Denver Indian Health and Family Services, only to be told she was in the “best shape.” Fast forward a few months later, and only then did she find out she had Lyme disease, which is a potentially debilitating illness.
If left untreated, this can impair vision, too. With this in mind, it’s important to make the most of alternative specialist care. For instance, you may want to look into teleophthalmology programs. Available online, these virtual platforms can make it easier for you to connect with eye experts. What’s more, there are specific vision-focused telemedicine efforts for AI/NA populations that you make the most of. One of these is the Special Diabetes Program for Indians and the American Telemedicine Association Category 3, which has already helped lower rates of diabetic retinopathy in adult patients.
