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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Mort Soroka, PhD, Center for Vision Care Policy, State University of New York College of Optometry, 33 West 42 Street, New York, NY 10036, 212 938 4174, msoroka@sunyopt.edu

This study provides insights into the most common diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed, medications prescribed and referrals made in general optometric practices. A representative sample of 480 Optometrists completed encounter forms for all patient seen during a two-day period in 2004. Data was obtained from 11,012 patients in rural, urban and suburban settings from practitioners in solo, group practices, commercial optical settings, HMOs, the VA, hospitals, and ophthalmology offices. Commissioned by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry, this study examines similarities and variations in practice patterns and profiles among optometrists in different settings.

Refractive error was the most prevalent diagnostic category, reflective of the ocular problems found in the general population and systemic conditions were the second largest diagnostic category. Although 12% of all patients were referred to an ophthalmologist for further care, other types of referrals were infrequent. Referrals to a primary care physician, lab or imaging or to a surgeon for refractive surgery accounted for only 8% of all referrals. Overall, referrals for refractive surgery represented fewer than 1% of all patients seen. Ocular disease treatment was found to be an integral part of the optometrist's practice, Prescribing topical ocular medications, both legend and over-the-counter, was a primary treatment option offered by optometrists to their patients. The most common medications prescribed were for glaucoma, with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy drops making up the remainder, in descending frequency.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session participants will be able
• to list the major diagnoses found in a general population
• Describe the changing role of optometrists in contemporary practice
• Understand the range of treatments provided by optometrists in a variety of practice settings

Keywords: Community Health,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No