School-Based Public Health Clinics
Vision screening program
The Health Department's school-based vision screening program is on hold for the 2021-2022 school year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vision screening remains an important component of child visual health. Vision screening can identify children who may otherwise have no symptoms, eye abnormalities or blurred vision that, if left untreated, may lead to permanent vision loss or impaired academic performance in school.
It is recommended that all children see an optometrist for an eye exam. A yearly eye exam is free for children up to 19 years of age with a valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card.
To find an optometrist, visit the Ontario Association of Optometrists website or call 1-800-540-3837.
Up to one in four children have problems seeing which can affect their learning. Some of these problems can be treated only if identified while children are young.
Public health nurses conduct vision screening for senior kindergarten students in accordance with the Ontario Public Health Standards.
| About the program |
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| What to expect |
If you do not wish to have your child's vision screened, please call 905-668-7711 or 1-800-841-2729 ext. 2216 |
| Getting help with the cost of prescription eyeglasses |
Grade 7 school vaccine clinics
Durham Region Health Department gives up to three vaccines to grade 7 students. For the 2021-2022 school year, school vaccinations will be offered at community sites by appointment only. They will not be offered at your child’s school. It is safe for your child to get multiple vaccines at one time.
Find more information on clinic locations and book your appointment online.
The following school-based vaccinations are free at Durham Region Health Department clinics. They are not free through your health care provider:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (2 doses, 6 months apart)
- Hepatitis B (2 doses, 6 months apart)
- Meningococcal C-ACYW135 (Men C-ACYW135) (one dose only)
Get more information on our Child Immunization and School Clinics page.
School screening dental clinics
The Health Department’s school dental screening program will resume in September 2022.
Free dental screenings for children and youth 17 and younger are available at Health Department community immunization clinics at our Oshawa and Pickering locations. No appointment is required for dental screenings.
If you would like your child to receive a free dental screening or if you have any questions regarding your child’s oral health, please contact the Health Department, Oral Health Clinic at 1-866-853-1326 ext. 4567.
A dental screening is a quick look at the teeth and gums with a dental mirror. It is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist. All schools in Durham Region participate in the school dental screening program.
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