Consent and capacity confidence and knowledge within optometric practice in Scotland

Area of Science:

• Optometry
• Healthcare Law
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• The optometric workforce's role is expanding, necessitating robust education on patient consent and capacity.
• Growing populations and evolving healthcare landscapes underscore the importance of understanding legal and ethical frameworks in optometric practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current confidence and knowledge levels of Scotland's optometric workforce regarding patient consent and capacity.
• To gauge interest in further training and education on consent and capacity within optometry.
• To identify specific areas of misunderstanding to inform future mandatory training modules.

Main Methods:

• A voluntary online survey was distributed to the optometric workforce in Scotland.
• The survey comprised 15 closed-ended, 6 open-ended, and 8 conditional questions covering demographics, consent, incapacity, and relevant legislation.
• Data was collected over a 50-day period in May 2019.

Main Results:

• 147 valid responses were received, with 85.7% expressing interest in further education on consent and capacity.
• While 60-74.8% felt moderately to very confident in assessing capacity and managing patients lacking capacity, knowledge of the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 was low (48.3% 'never heard of' or 'not at all knowledgeable').
• A significant portion (60.5%) lacked knowledge regarding certificates of incapacity, with no respondents rating themselves as 'very knowledgeable' in this area.

Conclusions:

• Despite moderate confidence, a notable knowledge gap exists within the Scottish optometric workforce concerning patient consent and capacity.
• There is a clear and significant demand for enhanced education and training in this critical area.
• Support and targeted education are essential for optometrists to provide safe and compliant care under the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000.