PURPOSE: To evaluate effectiveness of the Low Vision the Benjamin Constant Institute (BCI) and confirm the real necessity of an Institute like BCI in the present inclusion policy. METHODS: Ecological study, analyzing 3 periods of Low Vision Assistance at the Benjamin Constant Institute from October 1, 1990 to december 20, 2002: a) 1991 - starting assistance; b) 1995 - medical pedagogic integration; c) 2002 - present-day situation. We considered in this analysis as indicators: I - Low Vision Assistance, II - Low Vision sector in the Benjamin Constant Institute, III - Associates. RESULTS: This study demonstrated an increase in assistance, reaching a wider spectrum of patients after medical-pedagogic integration. Other indicators, such as physician capacitation, participation in Benjamin Constant Capacitation Courses, increase in orienta tion to institutions, schools and others and referrals to the Benjamin Constant Institute, and Rehabilitation also attest the effectiveness of the Low Vision sector of the Benjamin Constant Institute. CONCLUSIONS: The Low Vision sector proved to be the interface between the Medical and Pedagogic Departments, and later on the Rehabilitation and Physical Education Coordination sectors. This has implied alterations in the way to manage the low-vision patient, not only regarding the regular Benjamin Constant Institute student as well as any other patient in the community. The Benjamin Constant Institute proved its importance as regards inclusion policy.
Vision, low; Blindness; Visually impaired persons; Information services; Academies and Institutes; Effectiveness
