Patterns of Practice in Australian Optometry Part II — Patient age influences the procedures used in optometric examination

Abstract

: In a questionnaire survey, 106 Australian optometrists indicated the percentage of their patients, in five age groups, on whom they performed 24 procedures. Results were analysed using Friedman two-way analyses of variance. Procedures carried out significantly more frequently on older patients were measurements of visual fields, biomicroscopy, tonometry and mydriatic examination. Procedures carried out more frequently on younger patients were examination of pupil reflexes and versions, measurement of hetero-phorias, ductions, fixation disparity, stereopsis, amplitudes of accommodation and convergence; cover test, cycloplegic examination and colour vision testing. Procedures whose use was curvilinearly related to patient age were contact lens wear, keratometry, length of history taking and consultation time. No significant differences were found in use of direct or indirect ophthalmoscopy, automated refractometry, and anterior eye or fundus photography. The appropriateness of these clinical decisions is discussed in terms of knowledge of epidemiology, visual development, prescribing of ophthalmic prosthetics and recommendations regarding minimum eye-care examination.