One of the flaws with online refraction systems (beyond the fact that they aren't a substitute for a full eye exam) is that it can be difficult - or impossible - to tell who the patient actually is when working with them online. Indeed, issues of identity are serious problems for all sorts of online transactions.

But in this case, it could lead to the writing and filling of fraudulent Rx's.

An anonymous poster writes of a story where he saw one system - Opternative - write an Rx for a non-existent patient - and even e-mailed a copy of the Rx for use elsewhere.

Read the details of the case here.

What does this mean for the physicians (MDs) who are signing off on these Rx's?
How is your state responding to internet-based refractions?
New regulations?
Whole-hearted approval?

Weigh in!

IMPORTANT LINKS

OFDR Website: http://www.aoafoundation.org/ofdr/

OFDR Application: http://www.aoafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/OFDR-Grant-Criteria-Application-with-W-9-2015.pdf

Donation Link: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=aoa&id=1

ODwire.org Classifieds: (post in Help Wanted if looking for work, all fees waived) https://www.odwire.org/classifieds/

Texas Optometric Association: http://texas.aoa.org

Tips for affected ODs that TOA sent out: http://myemail.constantcontact.com/...Storm.html?soid=1101264306992&aid=xTwoNqRd6ok

Classifieds for relief/work for TOA members: http://texas.aoa.org/x8642.xml

Classifieds ads can be posted by non-members currently by emailing: TOAdesk@txeyedoctors.com

Discuss here ...

We have a long thread discussing the impact of Hurricane Harvey on ODwire.org Site members. Many in Houston have had their offices flooded out.

After communicating with the AOA, we learned that they have relief programs and funds in place for those ODs impacted by the storm.

Here is the letter we received from Jon Hymes at the AOA:

Optometry's Fund for Disaster Relief, a program of Optometry Cares -- The AOA Foundation, has since its inception provided more than $500,000 to doctors of optometry who have endured losses from natural disasters. As with our rapid mobilization in response to last years' floods in Louisiana, the objective right now in Texas is to provide rapid and direct financial support to ODs at the earliest possible point, and that mobilization in close coordination with the Texas Optometric Association, is already underway.

Certainly, this is an especially important moment to support Optometry's Fund for Disaster Relief and to spread the word about this uniquely targeted and very necessary initiative. Here's more information on how to get involved now, including by making an online donation:

http://www.aoafoundation.org/ofdr/

https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=aoa&id=1

I salute your special concern about how this devastating storm will impact doctors of optometry, and your desire to actively back proven relief and recovery efforts. Thank you!

Jon

Again, the link to donate is here.

Share your stories of the storm and updates in this ongoing thread.