The American Optometric Association (AOA) is warning consumers of the dangers of on-line eye exams. They have even taken legal action against these types of vision test with the Food and Drug Administration.
“No product or company can or should be allowed to operate outside appropriate Federal oversight when vision and overall health are at stake. That’s why the AOA is urging the government to fully enforce basic patient safety and consumer protection safeguards.” Dr. Steven A. Loomis, O.D., AOA president,
As an authority of quality vision care, the AOA is concerned the public is being misled and essential care is dangerously delayed or diverted.
The AOA warns that on-line eye exams or Opternative test:
Has a significant potential for yielding inaccurate prescriptions
Is not adequate to safely yield a contact lens prescription
Carries a significant risk of the missing of diagnoses of serious eye and general health considerations such as glaucoma, hypertension, cataracts, and macular degeneration
Can pose significant health risks to the public.
“The AOA’s primary concern is that patient health and safety is at risk due to lack of understanding as to what services an online vision test company actually offers and can deliver to consumers,” said Dr. Steven A. Loomis, O.D., AOA president.
“When a patient comes into the office for an examination, we do so much more than just update a prescription for glasses or contacts. Our tests are specialized for the needs of each individual and allow us to check the overall health of our patients. By analyzing images of the back of the eye, for example, we can see how a patient’s blood vessels are functioning which can signify serious conditions like hypertension that often go undetected. The eyes are the window to your well-being and their care cannot be left to a computer and a smart phone.”