Disorders of Refraction course for GPs

This session will provide users with knowledge about types of refractive error, contact lenses and their complications and principles of refractive surgery. An explanation of optometry referral letters is also described.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in January 2022.

Learning objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• differentiate between myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism
• define presbyopia and its implications
• list the common problems associated with contact lenses
• describe the principles of refractive surgery
• list types of low vision aids including magnifiers
• describe the GOS 18 referral form used by optometrists

While refractive errors are by far the most common eye disorders faced by eye health professionals today, GPs do not often have to deal with this problem because patients seek help from an optician (optometrist).