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Embrace new duties, but stay committed to traditional optometry
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As Primary Care Optometry News celebrates its first birthday, I find myself reflecting upon a year gone by. Having the pleasure of reviewing a variety of articles and interviews on a monthly basis, I am constantly amazed by all that is going on in our great profession.
The year 1996 all but consummated optometry's long-anticipated therapeutic legislation sweep. It was a year in which a variety of new glaucoma medications were introduced, and in which laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis became a serious contender in the refractive surgery arena. And, finally, though not inconsequentially, 1996 marked another year of increased managed care.
Indeed, with each year we increase our knowledge base and practice scope, assume more responsibility and — unfortunately — face greater adversity. In a way, we are challenged to expand our horizons without compromising our efforts. Perhaps, however, the greatest challenge lies in assimilating change while remaining committed to traditional optometry.
To many of us, optometry is well rooted in the disciplines of refraction, ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses. And while these exercises are occasionally mundane, they are nonetheless essential to the vitality of our profession and our practices.
No one can refute that there are more myopes than mature cataracts, a greater number of contact lens wearers than diabetics and more progressive addition spectacle users than glaucoma patients.
And after all, as primary care providers, isn't it our responsibility to offer services commensurate with our patients' most frequent needs?
Financial significance
Furthermore, consider the financial significance of these core disciplines. For many, refraction, contact lens fitting and ophthalmic dispensing are the economic backbone of their practice. These services provide clinicians with the financial freedom to pursue other endeavors, such as continuing education, legislative efforts and community service.
Finally, consider the negative ramifications if optometry were not in these arenas. Arguably, optometry has done more than its share to advance the science of refraction, contact lenses and ophthalmic dispensing. Without its stewardship, would the tremendous proliferation of clinical research continue? Probably not. In optometry's absence, would another discipline try to fill the void? You bet!
As I see it, we must integrate new found responsibilities without losing sight of our traditional role. Only then can we best serve our patients' needs and solidify optometry's role within the health care system.