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It seems, following a recent study conducted at the University of Leeds, that when it comes to visiting your optometrist with an eye related condition, thoughts and fears such as those more commonly linked to trips to the dentist are highlighted and raised. In the case of dentistry, many fear pain and horrendous noises associated with physical inflictions, the problem the public worry most about with optometrists boils down to something a little more basic, money and cost.
During the National Optometric Conference 2011, which Hanson Instruments were proud sponsors of, Professor Darren Shickle of the university raised his concerning findings during a talk at the event. His findings were that the general perception of a visit to an optometrist, amongst the public was that the experience would be expensive and that they would find themselves in a situation where they were being sold to. The primary concern of eye care and treatment became secondary in the patients mind.
The research was put in place as the take up of free NHS eye exams has been lower than expected. It seems that many without diagnosed eye conditions and even those with, decide against visiting as they believe the eventual cost outweighs the initial free promotion. Another alarming finding was that many didn't have trust in the eye car specialist themselves, believing most focus on sales and profits over recommending solutions applicable to them. Optometrists have also been urged to focus on making pricing and features explanations as uncomplicated as possible, as many patients admit to feeling confused and bamboozled during discussions and advice once their examinations have taken place.