Routine, school-based check-ups for 11 and 12 year old students will no longer include testing for defects in colour vision. This change came into effect as of July 1. The reason for the change is to allow Ministry of Health Technicians more time to identify problems which may have a greater impact for a child (than a colour vision defect).

Colour vision deficits are more common for boys (10% of the population of 26,000 NZ boys screened annually).

The change was influenced by a research project at the University of Otago. Overseen by eye specialist Dr Graham Wilson, the research resulted in a paper 'Is screening for congenital colour vision deficiency in school students worthwhile?' The research concluded "there was no link between colour vision deficiency and the level of educational achievement, and only a rare association between the condition and other health and lifestyle impacts". Discontinuing testing.

There are numerous online sites for self testing - and these provide a useful screening tool. Here are some options: Enchroma, Colorblind or Colblinder. If a young person uncovers any difficulties, come and see us to check the result.