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Accuracy and Repeatability of Internet-ordered Spectacle Lenses
Adam Gordon, Michael D Twa1, Gary Cutter2
1University of Houston College of Optometry, Houston, Texas.
Summary
Nearly 1 in 10 online spectacle lens prescriptions failed national quality standards. While this shows improvement, further research is needed on factors like fit and placement for online eyewear.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Vision Science
- Consumer Product Safety Standards
Background:
- Consumers and eye care practitioners require assurance regarding the quality and safety of online optical vendors.
- Previous studies indicated significant issues with online spectacle prescriptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy and repeatability of spectacle lens prescriptions from selected online vendors.
- To assess compliance with national optical quality and safety standards for online-ordered eyewear.
Main Methods:
- Paid participants without optical training ordered spectacle lenses from three online vendors.
- Prescription powers were sampled from a large database; 100 orders per vendor were placed, including single vision and progressive lenses.
- An independent lab tested lenses for conformance to ANSI Z80.1-2015 standards and FDA safety regulations.
Main Results:
- Overall failure rates were 11.2% (Vendor A), 8.0% (Vendor B), and 8.2% (Vendor C).
- Prescription repeatability was high (correlation coefficients > 90%).
- No failures were recorded for lens impact safety tests.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 10% of spectacle prescriptions from the studied online vendors did not meet national optical quality standards.
- Further investigation is necessary to evaluate other critical aspects of online eyewear, including lens positioning, frame fit, and aesthetics.
