A survey of the optometric practice in the Armed Forces

Abstract

Military optometry was examined through a review of literature and 183 returned questionnaires from practicing Air Force, Army, and Navy optometrists. The survey asked questions about the background, present practice, and attitudes of the optometrists. The results showed that the average military optometrist offered routine refractions with limited contact lens and screening work. The optometrists had a good working relationship with other health professionals and were happy with the military. Half of the optometrists stated they would encourage other optometrists to join the military. The reasons given in favor of joining were job security, health benefits, travel, and experience. Reasons given not to become a military optometrist were unfair pay anl promotion, lack of freedom to practice, frequent moves, and diffuculty in getting poor equipment replaced in reasonable time