Practitioner ethics in optometry

The Optometric Oath
With full deliberation, I freely and solemnly pledge that:
I AFFIRM that the health of my patient will be my first consideration.
I WILL practice the art and science of optometry faithfully and conscientiously, and to the fullest scope of my competence.
I WILL uphold and honorably promote by example and action the highest standards, ethics and ideals of my chosen profession and the honor of the degree, Doctor of Optometry, which has been granted me.
I WILL provide professional care for the diverse populations who seek my services, with concern, with compassion and with due regard for their human rights and dignity.
I WILL work to expand access to quality care and improve health equity for all communities.
I WILL place the treatment of those who seek my care above personal gain and strive to see that none shall lack for proper care.
I WILL hold as privileged and inviolable all information entrusted to me in confidence by my patients.
I WILL advise my patients fully and honestly of all which may serve to restore, maintain or enhance their vision and general health.
I WILL strive continuously to broaden my knowledge and skills so that my patients may benefit from all new and efficacious means to enhance the care of human vision.
I WILL share information cordially and unselfishly with my fellow doctors of optometry and other professionals for the benefit of patients and the advancement of human knowledge and welfare.
I WILL do my utmost to serve my community, my country and humankind as a citizen as well as a doctor of optometry.
I HEREBY commit myself to be steadfast in the performance of this my solemn oath and obligation.

Core Ethical Principles

According to the WCO Optometrist Code of Conduct:

• Patient-centred care: Keep the patient’s eye, vision, and general health as the priority.
• Respect and dignity: Respect patients’ rights, autonomy, dignity, and health care decisions.
• Appropriate referral/consultation: Refer patients to other healthcare professionals when needed.
• Confidentiality and privacy: Protect patient health information and privacy.
• Access to care: Strive to ensure all people can access eye and vision care.
• Continuous learning: Advance professional knowledge and skills to benefit patient care.
• Standards & professionalism: Maintain practice standards and promote ethical relationships within the healthcare community.
• Professional integrity: Uphold the dignity, honor, and integrity of the optometric profession. (World Council of Optometry)

According to the College of Optometrists & UK Regulatory Standards (UK) Foundational Ethical Priorities:

• Putting patients first: Patient interests are central to all clinical and professional decision making.
• Communication & teamwork: Clear, respectful communication with patients and colleagues.
• Maintaining trust: Acting with integrity, honesty, fairness, and respect.
• Safety & quality: Ensuring safe, evidence based practice and high quality care standards.
• Professional boundaries: Understanding limits of competence and practice scope. (College Optometrists)