Vision Bus Aotearoa: a platform for strengthening eye health teaching, research and community partnership

Abstract

ABSTRACT Clinical Relevance Vision Bus Aotearoa is a fully equipped mobile eye health clinic designed to provide a novel platform for undergraduate optometry clinical training, community eye health research and deliver services to underserved communities. Background Aotearoa New Zealand has inequitable access to eye health care. Vision Bus Aotearoa aims to work in partnership with communities to provide comprehensive mobile primary eye health care services while training optometry students, and integrating community eye health research. Methods A description is provided of the governance model which has been involved throughout the project. Results The process of vehicle manufacture, clinical set-up, funding models and service delivery are described. The aims of the project are detailed in terms of optometry teaching, clinical services in partnership with communities, and research integration and implementation. Conclusion Vision Bus Aotearoa represents a valuable opportunity to deliver mobile eye health care to historically underserved communities, enhance undergraduate optometry teaching and to provide a unique platform for community eye health research.