Public Perception of Eye Care Providers Still Unclear
A 2005 survey shows consumers are confused about the differences among eye care providers, but when it comes to surgery, consumers overwhelmingly know that they want a provider with a medical degree.
This is the conclusion of a recent Web-based survey of 600 adults conducted for the National Consumers League by TNS Jstreet, a Washington, D.C., survey firm.
Some of the most interesting findings include:
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When it comes to performing surgeries (including laser), 85.6 percent of respondents indicate they would prefer their eye-care provider to have a medical degree. Similarly, 81.6 percent say the same for injecting /prescribing mediations, and 86.1 percent for emergency care for severe pain or loss of vision.
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Only skilled, licensed medical doctors should perform eye surgery, agree 90.5 percent of respondents. And 77 percent disagree that it is OK for an experienced eye-care provider who is not a licensed medical doctor to perform eye surgery, so long as a skilled and licensed medical doctor is present.
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Respondent awareness of the necessary credentials to become an optician and optometrist varied. Thirty percent of respondents think an optometrist has a medical degree. However, the majority of respondents believe an ophthalmologist must be a medically trained professional (67 percent) who is board certified (71 percent).
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Respondents strongly agree that both laser vision correction and procedures involving a scalpel are considered surgery. In addition, respondents agree that qualification standards should be consistent throughout the United States and that state medical boards should be responsible for “defining” what surgery is.
The national study underscores the need for educating the public about eye health care providers. NCL has set up a Web site offering tips and information to help people select the provider who is right for them.
The National Consumers League is the nation’s oldest consumer advocacy organization. It commissioned the survey to explore consumers’ understanding of the eye care arena, which is often confusing due to the number of professionals who offer services. The Academy provided NCL with an unrestricted educational grant, which made the survey possible.
