The evolution of optometric education in America.
BACKGROUND: The first American optometry law was passed in Minnesota 100 years ago. That law--and the others that followed--determined the minimal educational requirements to practice optometry. Legislating the practice of optometry was the first step in changing optometric education, from a short course in refraction to an accredited university program. As the practice of optometry has changed and evolved over the past 100 years, so has the optometry school education. PURPOSE: This article chronicles the changes that have occurred in optometric education during this evolutionary period.
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