Knowledge, attitude, and binocular vision practice among practicing optometrists in India

To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and binocular vision practice of optometrists with different modes of practice in India. A questionnaire-based survey with 25 questions on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of binocular vision services was prepared and self-administered to practicing optometrists in India. Among the 209 participants, vision therapy (VT) services were provided by 59.8%. The knowledge of BV was found to be Basic (39.2%), advanced (48.8%), and Expert (12%). The preferred modes of VT were combined (52.8%), home-based (24.8%), and office-based (22.4%). Of those (40.2%) practitioners who were not practicing VT, among them (79.8%) said they referred patients for VT. The referral is mainly to a vision therapy specialist (optometrist) 83.8% and to an ophthalmologist 16.2%. Among them, 66.7% were interested in starting VT practice in the future, and 97.6% showed a willingness to learn VT. The practitioners had basic and advanced knowledge of binocular vision. More than 50% of them practice VT, and those who don’t show a positive attitude, as 97.6% are willing to learn VT and start practicing.