Refraction by dispensing opticians is fast becoming the elephant in the room of optical debate. Everyone knows that there are DOs in practice with the skills and desire to refract but no debate is taking place. Sir Tony Garrett, ABDO general secretary (see page 8), pointed out this is an issue 'which isn't going to go away'. It also threatens to be one which could backfire on optics if it doesn't manage its implementation or rejection.
No one undergoing an eye exam can fail to notice the blurring of the lines of skills in practice. The patient journey in most of the larger chains involves a series of tests such as autorefraction, tonometry, digital photography. Many patients are probably confused about the role of those conducting pre-assessments and may well assume that everyone in a clinical-looking uniform is an 'optician'.
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