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AOA warns consumers, alerts FDA of online vision tests
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The American Optometric Association is educating consumers on the risks and limitations of online vision tests that claim to offer refractive eye tests and issue prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses.
The tests are being marketed to consumers as time-saving and cost-efficient, according to a press release from the association.
However, the AOA is concerned, as the online version does not include a comprehensive examination of the patient’s eye health by an eye care professional.
The press release listed testing that may be included in a comprehensive adult eye examination: patient and family health history, visual acuity measurement, preliminary tests, refractive status, eye health examination and dilation, and additional tests as needed.
In a detailed complaint submitted to the FDA in April, the AOA challenged claims made by Opternative about its product capabilities and called for action to remove it from the market until the device can be shown to meet all appropriate federal requirements for medical devices under the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.