Topic-Early Diagnosis and Standard Operating Procedures in Pediatric Ophthalmology: Enhancing Visual Outcomes through Structured Care

Background: Pediatric visual impairment is a major public health concern, often arising from preventable or treatable conditions such as amblyopia, refractive errors, and strabismus. The early years of a child’s life are critical for visual development, making timely diagnosis and structured management essential. Aim: This review aims to evaluate the impact of early diagnosis and the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on improving visual outcomes in children, with a focus on current global practices, challenges, and gaps in pediatric eye care. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2024. A total of 55 studies were included after screening and quality appraisal. Results: The findings highlight that early screening significantly enhances treatment success rates and prevents long-term vision loss. SOPs play a crucial role in standardizing screening protocols, ensuring timely referrals, and improving continuity of care. However, disparities in access and implementation remain prominent, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the burden of childhood visual impairment is highest. Conclusion: Early diagnosis combined with robust SOP frameworks is key to optimizing visual outcomes in pediatric populations. Strengthening vision screening programs, investing in health education, and integrating SOPs into national child health strategies can dramatically reduce preventable childhood blindness and visual impairment globally.