A nonprofit reading-glass program should carry enough power breadth to support the target population, with more depth in the strengths participants actually select. Equal quantities across every power can create surplus at the edges and shortages in the middle.
Separate breadth from depth
Breadth is the range of powers offered. Depth is the number of pairs held within each power. The opening curve should reflect the approved program scope, adult target population, distribution setting, and replenishment plan, then change from utilization data.
A practical starting method
- Define the nonprescription power range the program will make available.
- Weight more opening inventory toward expected core powers.
- Label every position clearly and keep replenishment stock organized by power.
- Track frames distributed and remaining inventory by power.
- Adjust the next order from actual selections and repeated shortages.
Major Frames planning context
In many reader-heavy Major Frames programs, approximately +2.00 through +3.50 receives more depth than the outer ends of the range. That is a Major Frames planning example, not a clinical recommendation or universal population standard. The final curve should be based on the people served and the program's utilization history.
Avoid functional out-of-stocks
A distribution table can still look full while failing participants if the powers they need are missing. Review repeatedly depleted powers, misplaced frames, unopened backstock, and whether staff can explain self-selection without diagnosing or prescribing.
What to monitor
- frames distributed by power
- repeated shortages by site or event
- inventory remaining by power
- replenishment frequency
- requests that could not be met
Nonprescription readers are not appropriate for every participant and are not a substitute for an eye exam or clinical care. The organization is responsible for its distribution and referral protocol.
Continue: Vision Access Partnerships, reading-power planning guidance, or discuss a Vision Access program.