Public health reports
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Public health reports · Jul 1991
Comparative StudyComparison of examination fees and availability of routine vision care by optometrists and ophthalmologists.
A national telephone survey of eye care practitioners shows that the average fee for routine eye examinations was less among optometrists than ophthalmologists. The average wait for the earliest appointment was 5 days for optometrists and 20 days for ophthalmologists. Weekend and evening appointments were also more obtainable among optometrists. ⋯ Supporters of bills permitting therapeutic pharmaceutical optometry contend that these changes would ensure the availability of quality eye care at significant savings, since optometric fees are generally lower than ophthalmological fees. In addition, it has been argued that optometrists are equitably distributed geographically and are more likely to have weekend and evening office hours, thus enabling increased patient access to eye care. When considering cost-effectiveness and accessibility, this study may provide information to those States considering changes in the scope of optometric licensure.