[Should optometrists be able to refer patients to ophthalmologists?].
BACKGROUND: Today optometrists in Norway can refer patients directly to ophthalmologists. Our article evaluates the quality of this practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 198 referrals from optometrists and 208 from general practitioners were evaluated. RESULTS: We found the referrals to be relevant to the ophthalmologist for nearly 95% in both groups. INTERPRETATION: The existing practice in which optometrists can refer their patients directly to ophthalmologists should be continued.