In case you did not realize it, optometry is quickly expanding its role in primary care as a healthcare profession. I’ve seen it in action at the IHS hospital and Veteran’s Affairs clinic I’ve worked at and patients are definitely better off because of it. Strange asymmetric optic nerve cupping, CRVO’s, suspected ocular ischemic syndrome have all been reasons for referrals on our part for carotid ultrasounds.
Recently I stumbled across this article in review of optometric business by Dr. Kathleen Andersen. (you’ll have to create an account to read the article but I think it’s very worthwhile to read some of the other great articles on that website). Dr. Andersen has introduced vascular health screenings along with her comprehensive eye examinations and I think it’s fantastic. By evaluating the carotid intima media thickness, optometrists can get a good indication on an individual’s vascular health.
Myself, I’ve recently started working with HeartSmart’s EyeCare division. Basically our goal is to expand optometry’s role as a primary health care provider by offering patients vascular health screenings. Millions of eye exams are conducted each year. In fact many Americans go see their optometrist more often than even their primary care physician!
If you think optometrists should play a bigger role in keeping patients healthy, like us at http://www.facebook.com/HeartSmartEyeCare