Prevalence of eye disease and number of ophthalmologists

The incidence and prevalence of eye and vision system disorders indicate that the present growth rate of the number of ophthalmologists continues. The number of residency positions in ophthalmology in the United States should remain at about the present number. To assure that those persons having eye disease but not seeking appropriate care are given the opportunity for such care, appropriate guidelines for referral to and from other specialties and health care providers should be established. Suggestions for specific guidelines of referral optometry and ophthalmology are presented. Specific action should be taken by ophthalmology to encourage appropriate groups to implement mass screening methods and public education for eye disease.