Myopia management in practice is becoming a team effort, with optometrists working in tandem with opticians and staff to enhance the patient experience and increase positive outcomes. To learn more specifically about opticians’ attitudes about their role and preferences in myopia control, we conducted a survey that reached opticians ranging from optical shop/practice owners to employees of independent O.D.s and M.D.s.
Overall, the responses were interesting and sometimes surprising.
A majority say they have received no training on myopia control. Most also say they are very comfortable with their level of understanding of myopia control, but the response was lukewarm on how many actually discuss myopia control with patients. And most have looked primarily to trade journals as a resource for training and educating themselves on myopia management.
Read on for more key insights on this hot topic in practice today. 
THE PATIENT CONNECTION
We asked opticians for their feedback on how they educate patients—and how they make decisions on recommended solutions. Here’s what they had to say.
What steps do you take to ensure patients understand the importance of myopia control?
Online tutorials and pamphlets.
In-office pamphlet.
I explain using myself with -11 lenses as an example and tell them my story and examples of other children I’ve encountered.
Quote studies from World Health Organization about worldwide myopic pandemic.
Refer them to the doctor for more difficult questions.
Take as much CE as possible.
Offer informational handouts, invite both parents/caretakers into discussion.
What factors do you consider when recommending spectacle lenses for myopia control?
Fatigue on digital devices.
Lifestyle, pricing, parent involvement or engagement.
Patients’ lifestyles, working/study conditions, prescription, age.
Age, rate of myopia, and family history.
Age of the child, maturity of child.
Having the right patient.
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