The Low Vision Team: Optometrists' and Ophthalmologists' Perceptions and Knowledge of Occupational Therapy

ABSTRACT

Aims: The purpose was to discover the knowledge and perceptions among eye-care professionals regarding the role of occupational therapists in low visions rehabilitation. Methods: A mixed methods design included open-ended qualitative responses along with quantitative survey data. Data were gathered anonymously through the PsychData electronic platform. Results: Optometrists and ophthalmologists were familiar with occupational therapy interventions for individuals with low vision but were uncertain about how to include occupational therapists in this practice specialty. Data were categorized into two themes: knowledge and perceptions and were grouped into subthemes of comprehensive, fractioned, occupational therapy intervention strategies, optimistic perceptions, and uncertain perceptions. It was found that only a small number of respondents referred or consulted with occupational therapists regarding clients with low vision. Conclusion: There is a need for education and advocacy to optometrists and ophthalmologists regarding the access to occupational therapy services for individuals with low vision.

KEYWORDS:

• Occupational therapy
• ophthalmologists
• optometrists
• low vision
• rehabilitation
• knowledge
• perception
• collaboration

Declaration of interest

This manuscript has not been published and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere. We have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rebecca Mayou

Rebecca Mayou, OTD, OTR/L was a graduate student, Department of Occupational Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD during the writing of this manuscript.