The educational definition of ‘visual impairment’ according to the Arizona Revised Statutes o15-761(38): "'Visual impairment' means a loss in visual acuity or a loss of visual field. . . that interferes with the child's performance in the educational environment and that requires the provision of special education and related services."

  

 Documentation from an ophthalmologist or optometrist
of a vision deficit is required before an educational eligibility
of visual impairment can be determined.


Medical Specialists in Visual Impairment

• Ophthalmologist (MD) - An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor. He/she can perform surgery, diagnose and treat eye diseases and prescribe medication. The ophthalmologist may also test visual acuity and visual field, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and in some cases, visual aids. Pediatric ophthalmologists have at least one additional year of fellowship training in the diagnosing, managing and treating children's eye problems.  
• Optometrist (OD) - An optometrist diagnoses vision problems and prescribes glasses and contact lenses. If he/she specializes in low vision, they may conduct low vision examinations, prescribe optical devices and provide vision-training activities.
• Optician - An optician grinds and fits lenses prescribed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. 
• Orthoptist - An orthoptist evaluates and treats disorders of vision, eye movements and eye alignment in children and adults. Such visual disorders may include lazy eye, strabismus (misaligned eyes) and double vision. 
• Ocularist - An ocularist designs and fits artificial eyes (prostheses) and scleral shells.