Evaluation of resources for contact lens practice in private contact lens clinics of Muscat, Oman

Abstract

Background: The integration of the contact lens (CL) practice with the VISION 2020 initiative is important. We assessed the facilities at the private CL clinics of Muscat. Accordingly, we suggested the appropriate eye care for CL wearers in Oman. Study design: This was a descriptive study. Materials and methods: This study was conducted between May and July 2006. A team of optometrists and health inspectors visited clinics and collected information about the infrastructure, available human resources, and materials used in the CL practice. We used a pre-tested close-ended questionnaire to collect responses of the practitioners and observations of the field staff. Statistical method: Univariate parametric type of analysis. Results: The team visited 67 CL clinics and interviewed 75 CL practitioners. Proper hand washing facility was available at 61 clinics. Thirty-nine practitioners had >10 years of experience in dispensing contact lenses. Only 13 clinics had a bio-microscope. None of the clinics had legal documents signed by both providers and end users of the contact lens. Conclusions: Contact lens has received less attention in areas outside the developed world. The CL practice in the private sectors of Oman needs to be strengthened. Minimum standards, standard operating procedures for CL practice, and its periodic supervision would be useful.

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