The critical difference: scope of optometry practice vs. entry level competency

This paper proposes a survey-based approach on how optometry can define the critical difference in competency levels between entry level and experienced practitioners. The report describes the design and pilot testing of a survey instrument on clinical competencies. This work is still in an early stage, and these preliminary findings are meant to encourage other individuals to work on empirical models for defining entry level clinical competencies. The pilot study concludes that a full scale project to describe empirically the entry level competencies for optometrists is feasible and worthy of effort. The findings of a descriptive study can help gauge at an institutional or national level what is the extent and diversity of views about what constitutes entry level clinical competencies for optometry.