Pediatric spectacle prescription: Understanding practice patterns among ophthalmologists and optometrists in Saudi Arabia

PURPOSE: This study aims to understand the approach to prescribing spectacles for children and the interpretation of refractive errors among ophthalmologists/optometrists in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between September and November 2018 using a database of online registrants for ophthalmologists and optometrists practicing in Saudi Arabia. The survey included 10 multiple-choice questions designed to elicit information about how ophthalmologists and optometrists deal with commonly encountered case scenarios covering different practical aspects of pediatric refraction. The responses were compared using the proportion of pediatric clientele received in the respondents' practices (Group A: <25%, Group B: 25%) and drawing upon concepts from the published literature. RESULTS: One hundred and three participants, including ophthalmologists, specialists/registrars, and optometrists from across Saudi Arabia, participated in this survey. Approximately 25% were classified as Group A. Large discrepancies were observed between the participants' responses and actual practices based on guideline recommendations. Responses varied significantly between Groups A and B on certain issues pertaining to pseudomyopia (P < 0.001), anisometropia (P = 0.033), and high astigmatism (P = 0.023). CONCLUSION: Practice patterns regarding pediatric spectacle prescription varied among ophthalmologists and optometrists in Saudi Arabia. The approach to managing refractive errors in children was better among ophthalmologists/optometrists servicing a larger pediatric clientele, suggesting the need to increase awareness among all groups of ophthalmologists/optometrists.