Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 10, 2025

Comparison of Agreement and Accuracy using Binocular Wavefront Optometer with Autorefractor and Phoropter
Published on: September 16, 2025
Opioid Prescribing Patterns of Optometrists in the Medicare Part D Database
Stephen C Dryden, Holly A O'Malley1, Lindsey R Adams2
1Veterans Administration Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee.
Significance:
This study aimed to determine the prescription rates and prescribing trends of opioids by optometrists in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) part D database from 2013 to 2017 and to assess opioid prescribing patterns of U.S. optometrists in the CMS part D database.
Methods:
With internal review board approval, a retrospective observational cohort study was conducted on optometrists listed in the CMS part D database who prescribed opioids from 2013 to 2017.
Results:
There was an average of 26,477 optometrists in the CMS database from 2013 to 2017, of which 5.9% prescribed opioids. Of those prescribing opioids, optometrists wrote an average of 5.9 opioid prescriptions per year. Those writing greater than 10 opioid prescriptions averaged 24.2 annually. Overall, of opioid prescribing optometrists, opioid prescriptions comprised 7% of prescriptions written per year.
Conclusions:
Most optometrists do not prescribe opioids, and the vast majority of those who do write few opioid prescriptions. The total number of optometrists prescribing opioids and the total number of opioid prescriptions declined from 2013 to 2017. Further investigation into the opioid prescribing practices by optometrists will help better understand specific pain needs, as opioid prescribing patterns may differ depending on patient population.
Related Concept Videos
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Absorption
Drug Dosing: Obese Patients

