Availability, Accessibility, and Barriers to Low Vision Devices in Edo State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study of Low Vision Care Providers

Low vision (LV) rehabilitation improves functional vision and quality of life among people living with irreversible visual loss. However, effective rehabilitation depends largely on the availability and accessibility of appropriate low vision devices (LVDs). This study evaluated factors influencing availability and accessibility of LVDs among low vision care providers in Edo State, Nigeria. We carried out descriptive cross-sectional survey among 22 optometrists providing LV care across the three senatorial districts of Edo State. Participants were purposively selected using predefined eligibility criteria. Participants completed a structured questionnaire independently, which was developed from National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire and modified for low vision service delivery. We processed and evaluated all information using SPSS version 23. On average, the participants were 38.18 ± 6.41 years old, and 63.6% were females. Nearly all providers (95.5%) reported poor availability of low vision devices, while 45.5% reported poor accessibility and 50.0% reported moderate accessibility. Most respondents indicated inadequate availability of electronic LVDs, poor access through local suppliers, limited institutional support, and high importation costs as major barriers. Despite these systemic challenges, most providers perceived relatively low barriers to prescribing devices, suggesting adaptation to longstanding resource limitations. Low vision rehabilitation services in Edo State are constrained primarily by inadequate availability and accessibility of LVDs, insufficient institutional support, and financial barriers. Strengthening procurement systems, improving government investment, expanding local distribution networks, and integrating low vision services into national eye health programmes are essential to improve equitable access to vision rehabilitation.