Superb Issue, Subpar Cover
Sometimes optometry inadvertently contributes to its own public relations failings with respect to the public and our own self-image.
The cover of the October 15, 2014 issue features a phoropter, which perpetuates the image of optometrists as refractionists. In counterdistinction, the subjects covered in this superb issue include IOL advances, a review of refractive surgery, postoperative complications of cataract surgery, retinal blood disorders and external ocular pathology.
We've come a long way from being primarily identified with refraction and glasses, and the images with which we identify ourselves should refl ect the change.
—Harvey Rosenwasser, OD
Key Biscayne, Fla.
Editor's note: To explain, the
cover concept was meant to illustrate
how ODs are now integrating
medical eye care with "traditional"
optometry, as seen through
the eyepieces of the phoropter.
Real Eye Exams Are Worth the Time, Trouble and Expense
Online eye exam technology has the potential of disrupting the industry and negatively impacting our profession. This technology has strong consumer support, and our efforts to block it could be viewed merely as protecting our own interests. But if optometry does not lead and own this conversation, we seriously risk losing credibility and authority on this issue.
In addition to dispensing a refractive prescription, the online eye exam will recommend an eye health exam with a local optometrist or ophthalmologist. However, this will not be required or enforced, with the digitally-signed Rx already given.
At least for now, no one under the age of 18 or over the age of 40, or with pre-existing medical conditions, is allowed to take the online eye exam. Yet we all know that serious eye diseases and medical conditions can be fi rst diagnosed in this age group. For this reason, the Optometric Society's public service campaign focuses on this age category and on patient education ( http://onlineeyeexamcost.com/).
Let's send a strong message: an eye exam is well worth the commute, the wait, the time and the money!
Four things you can do:
1. Make sure your staff communicates
with every patient the
difference between a refraction and
a comprehensive eye exam. In the
waiting room, have written patient
cases and testimonials of how
ocular and medical conditions were
found during a routine exam.
2. Write an op-ed for your local
newspaper or give an interview at
your local radio station, detailing
the limitations of online eye exams
and the importance of full-scope
optometric care
3. Alert your state medical board
and your state AOA chapter. Get
involved!
4. Expand your services to
include specialty contact lenses,
orthokeratology, low vision and
vision therapy. Expand the technology
offered in your practice to
deliver the highest level of eye care
possible.
—Lisa Shin, OD
The Optometric Society
www.theoptometricsociety.org