Optometric manpower in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico: estimates and projections, 1982-2025

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Workforce Studies
• Optometry

Background:

• The study updates a 1982 analysis of optometric supply in Puerto Rico.
• It assesses the accuracy of previous projections and re-evaluates optometric manpower status through 2025.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide updated data on optometric manpower in Puerto Rico.
• To inform the School of Optometry's enrollment decisions.
• To project future supply and demand for optometrists.

Main Methods:

• Supply estimates utilized data from professional optometric and ophthalmology associations, and school registries.
• Demand was estimated using provider-to-population ratios and per capita demand.
• Projections considered various assumptions on supply, productivity, and demand.

Main Results:

• In 1995, optometrists represented 52.2% of vision care providers, with a ratio of 8.2 per 100,000 population.
• Optometrist distribution varied significantly across regions, from 28 in Mayagüez to 107 in San Juan.
• Projections indicated potential surpluses or deficits in optometric supply through 2025.

Conclusions:

• Future optometric supply in Puerto Rico may range from a surplus of 961 to a deficit of 2,085 practitioners by 2025.
• The findings highlight the uncertainty in projecting manpower needs based on varying assumptions.
• Informed enrollment strategies are crucial for the School of Optometry to address potential future imbalances.