Doctor Patient Relations

Optometric Oath: Words to Practice By

By Peter G. Shaw-McMinn

My son recently graduated from Marshal B. Ketchum University, Southern California College of Optometry. As a part-time faculty member I have attended many graduations. I always enjoy the part of our graduation where we recite the optometric oath. It helps remind me of why I went into the profession in the first place—to help people reach their full potential in life. And I particularly like the reminder that we all swore to recommend the best to our patients: “I WILL advise my patients fully and honestly of all which may serve to restore, maintain or enhance their vision and general health.”

Too often, it seems we recommend products or services based on what we think the patient can afford. Yet the average household is spending over $51,000 a year. I believe we have a good argument that they should be spending $1,000 a year on what we have to offer. What do you think?

Review the following pledge, which Richard Hopping, OD, past president of Southern California College of Optometry adapted from the Hippocratic oath, and see if you can think of more ways to improve the lives of your patients–from personalized progressives, to more advanced multifocal contact lenses, polarzied sunwear, and eyewear to reduce the strain of computer work, and beyond.

The Optometric Oath
With full deliberation I freely and solemnly pledge that: I will practice the art and science of optometry faithfully and conscientiously, and to the fullest scope of my competence. I will uphold and honorably promote by example and action the highest standards, ethics and ideals of my chosen profession and the honor of the degree, Doctor of Optometry, which has been granted me.

I WILL provide professional care for those who seek my services, with concern, with compassion and with due regard for their human rights and dignity.
I WILL place the treatment of those who seek my care above personal gain and strive to see that none shall lack for proper care.
I WILL hold as privileged and inviolable all information entrusted to me in confidence by my patients.
I WILL advise my patients fully and honestly of all which may serve to restore, maintain or enhance their vision and general health.
I WILL strive continuously to broaden my knowledge and skills so that my patients may benefit from all new and efficacious means to enhance the care of human vision.
I WILL share information cordially and unselfishly with my fellow optometrists and other professionals for the benefit of patients and the advancement of human knowledge and welfare. I will do my utmost to serve my community, my country and humankind as a citizen as well as an optometrist.

I HEREBY commit myself to be steadfast in the performance of this my solemn oath and obligation.

New ODs should recall that we are not like other people. We have chosen a path that can give comfort to others, improve their productivity and enhance their self-esteem. Use the optometric oath to re-dedicate your efforts to always do the best for your patients. Society will be better off with you as an active contributor to the betterment of mankind.

Following the optometric oath throughout your career will allow you to experience gratefulness from your patients: The young mother who is relieved all is well with her infant’s eyes; the teenager with a wide smile as she sees her face clearly in the mirror with contact lenses; the IT professional who calls the office elated at no more headaches at the end of the day; the mature patient who beams after you tell them, “You still have 20/20 vision!” That’s why we became doctors of optometry. That is what life is all about for us!

How do you live up to the optometric oath every day as you practice optometry? Do you have any recent patient success stories to share?

Peter G. Shaw-McMinn, OD, is an assistant professor of Clinical Studies at the Southern California College of Optometry. He is the senior partner of Sun City Vision Center, a group practice including five optometrists. Dr. Shaw-McMinn has served as chairman of the AOA Practice Management Committee and the Association of Practice Management Educators. He was the appointed Benedict professor in Practice Management for the University of Houston College of Optometry for 2001-2002. To contact: shawmc1@me.com.

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