Knowledge and practices of vision screening standards for driving among optometrists in Gauteng province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Despite the existence of vision screening standards, inconsistent implementation of these standards among optometrists persists.

Aim: To evaluate the knowledge and practices of optometrists regarding vision screening standards specific to driver fitness assessments.

Setting: Gauteng province, South Africa.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study employing a quantitative approach was conducted among optometrists via an online survey.

Results: A total of 156 optometrists with a mean professional experience of 18.6 years ± 10 years participated in the study. The majority of optometrists (73%) demonstrated knowledge of the minimum vision screening standards required for driving. Male optometrists had higher odds of good knowledge compared to females (OR: 1.84 CI: 1.01 – 3.37, p = 0.048). Most optometrists (89%) adhered to these standards in their clinical practice. There was a significant association between knowledge level and the practice of measuring both visual acuity (VA) and visual fields (VF) (χ² = 9.358, p = 0.025).

Conclusion: While the majority of optometrists (73%) demonstrated knowledge of the minimum vision screening standard required for driving, 89% reported adherence to these standards in practice; it is concerning that 27% lacked sufficient knowledge, and 11% did not adhere to these screening standards.

Contribution: The study highlights gaps in the knowledge and practice of vision screening standards among optometrists.