Knowledge, Attitude, and Binocular Vision Practice Among Practicing Optometrists in India

• Sourajit Kumar Banerjee,*  
• Roshni Sengupta,  
• Zeeshan Akhtar

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and binocular vision practice of optometrists with different modes of practice in India. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey with 25 questions on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of binocular vision services was prepared and self-administered to practicing optometrists in India. Results: Among the 209 participants, vision therapy (VT) services were provided by 59.8%. The knowledge of BV was found to be Basic (39.2%), advanced (48.8%), and Expert (12%). The modes of VT preferred were combined (52.8%), Home-based (24.8%), and Office based (22.4%). Of those (40.2%) practitioners who were not practicing VT, among them (79.8%) said they refer patients for VT. The referral is mainly to a vision therapy specialist (optometrist) 83.8% and to an ophthalmologist 16.2%. Among them, 66.7% were interested in starting VT practice in the future and 97.6% showed willingness to learn VT. Conclusion: The basic and advanced knowledge of binocular vision was there among the practitioners. More than 50% of them practice VT and those who don’t practice showed a positive attitude as 97.6% of them are willing to learn VT and start practicing. Keywords: Optometry, Vision Therapy, Binocular Vision, Health Sciences.

Keywords

Optometry, Vision Therapy, Binocular Vision, Health Sciences.