[Should optometrists be able to refer patients to ophthalmologists?].
BACKGROUND
Today optometrists in Norway can refer patients directly to ophthalmologists. Our article evaluates the quality of this practice.


METHODS
198 referrals from optometrists and 208 from general practitioners were evaluated.


RESULTS
We found the referrals to be relevant to the ophthalmologist for nearly 95% in both groups.


CONCLUSIONS
The existing practice in which optometrists can refer their patients directly to ophthalmologists should be continued.
Riise
D
D
Oyeavdelingen Sentralsjukehuset i Hedmark, Hamar.
Arnestad
J E
JE
Saetrom
K M
KM
D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D009664:Norway; D009885:Ophthalmology; D009907:Optometry; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D000078329:Workforce