Atwelve quarter quantitative analysis of ophthalmic drugs prescription-writing by optometrists in the United States

Abstract

The traditional role of optometry has been the performance of refractions with the intent to correct vision disorders. In the US, optometry accounts for over two thirds of eye care-related visits. Optometrists have had the privilege of prescribing medications for many years and have been known to manage eye diseases. With no quantitative data known about optometrists’ involvement in managing diseases of the eye, this study describes the trend of ophthalmic drug prescription-writing by optometrists in the US over a 12 quarter period (comprising a 3 year period).