Knowledge towards refractive error correction modalities among undergraduate medical, dental and paramedical students in a tertiary care centre

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: To determine the awareness towards refractive error correction modalities among the medical dental and paramedical students. Materials AND Methods: A random sampling was applied to choose 453 participants of various medical, dental and paramedical courses, data was collected through a structured questionnaire to assess the knowledge of various correction modalities. Results: About 55.6% of the participants have refractive errors. 63.3% had a clear idea between ophthalmologist and optometrist however, 36.6% of the students were not aware especially the paramedics. 77.6% had knowledge about contact lens usage instead of spectacles, 64.8% knew about its side effects. About 73.9% were aware of the refractive surgeries but 62.4% refused to undergo the surgery and 49.1% were not aware about the side effects. Conclusion: Majority of the medical and dental students showed considerable knowledge regarding various correction modalities compared to the paramedics however, as future health care professional an extensive knowledge regarding the various refractive error correction modalities is necessary.