Formation of technicians in optometry and optics

The optometric and optical service was included in Mision Barrio Adentro program implemented in Zulia state, Venezuela in May, 2004 at the initiative of Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz. The objective was to solve the visual health problems of those patients suffering uncorrected refractive errors that may be eliminated through use of corrective lenses. One optometrist and 2 optical technicians were then appointed to work in each of the 61 optical centers located in the state; most of the technicians graduated from an intensive course of basic skill development in the handling of optical workshops. A descriptive study was conducted to leave Educacion Medica Superior. 2014; 28(4):751-759 http://scielo.sld.cu 752 written memories of this process and to help to the upgrading of the optical staff. The result was the formation of 89 basic technicians and 32 middle-level technicians in optometry and optics.