Ophthalmic Dispensing Liability

Question 1

Frames are less common cause of litigation, but ____ and ____ have produced litigation

Answer 1

Safety and sports frames

Question 2

What are some of the negligence claims against ODs involving dispensing ophthalmic materials?

Answer 2

1. Failure to rx an impact resistant lens material (polycarbonate or trivex)
2. Failure to warn of less impact resistance of other lens
3. Failure to inspect and verify lens and frames PRIOR to dispensing (especially safety eye wear)

Question 3

Guidelines for dispensing and what you should document in exam chart

Answer 3

Asking about occupation and hobbies
Remembering the high risk groups associated with injuries
Recommend and document safety and sports eyewear
Knowing how to inspect and VERIFY safety and sports eyewear. Document
Avoid terms such as shatter proof or unbreakable lens

Question 4

I have a duty to inform which groups of people at risk for ocular injuries

Answer 4

Athletes

Monocular pts