Attitudes about women in optometry

A survey was conducted to examine attitudes that affect women in optometry. Most respondents felt that women have greater difficulty than men entering private practice. On the other hand, the majority felt that female optometrists do not find it more difficult to be employed by other ODs, MDs, or to work in corporate settings, HMOs/health institutions, or academic settings. Examining the results of the survey can help establish programs of professional development that will enable women to practice in the environments that they find most suitable. In addition, an open and honest discussion of these issues can raise the sensitivity of the optometric community to these issues.