Survey: 96% of Optometrists Assess Smoking Status - Scorecard - MDSpire

Survey: 96% of Optometrists Assess Smoking Status

Survey finds widespread smoking status screening among optometrists in Wales following national training requirements.

  • By

  • Julie Greenbaum

  • March 16, 2026

  • 5 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Survey: 96% of Optometrists Assess Smoking Status

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionSmoking Status Assessment in Eye Care
Key MechanismsAssessment of smoking status and provision of cessation advice during eye examinations.
Target PopulationPatients aged 16 years or older receiving eye care services in Wales.
Care SettingPublicly funded eye care services in Wales.

Key Highlights

  • 96% of optometrists aim to identify smoking status during eye examinations.
  • 78% advise on the link between smoking and eye health.
  • 83% feel adequately trained to discuss smoking cessation.
  • 60% report patient reluctance as a barrier to discussions.
  • Notable increase in practice compared to earlier surveys.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess smoking status during eye examinations.

Management

  • Advise patients on the link between smoking and eye health.
  • Provide resources for smoking cessation support.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Assess patient motivation to stop smoking.

Risks

  • Limited consultation time and patient reluctance hinder discussions.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients aged 16 years or older in Wales receiving NHS optometry services.

Optometrists are well-positioned to discuss smoking cessation but face barriers.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Engage in smoking status discussions during eye examinations.
  • Utilize available training resources to enhance confidence in smoking cessation counseling.
  • Address barriers such as patient reluctance and time constraints.

References

Original Source(s)

Survey: 96% of Optometrists Assess Smoking Status

  • by Julie Greenbaum

  • March 16, 2026

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