The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the South African Optometric Association (SAOA) have raised concerns about the growing trend of retailers marketing prescription spectacles and contact lenses without proper eye tests by authorized and registered practitioners. In a joint statement, the two associations emphasized the importance of eye tests for evaluating vision, detecting eye diseases, and identifying other health issues.
According to HPCSA spokesperson Priscilla Sekhonyana, spectacles and contact lenses are medical devices regulated by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). She highlighted the risks associated with purchasing these medical devices online, as there is no assurance that the lenses received are manufactured according to the prescription and measurements specified. Additionally, the quality of the product cannot be verified.
The Health Professions Act sets conditions for online sales of optical medical devices, specifying that spectacles cannot be dispensed without a written prescription signed by a medical practitioner or an optometrist. Noko Thema, speaking on behalf of the SAOA, emphasized the risks of purchasing spectacles without a proper prescription, including potential eye strain, headaches, uncorrected squint, and deterioration of vision.
Sekhonyana emphasized the importance of a comprehensive eye exam for detecting conditions that may result in vision impairment or vision loss. Vision-threatening conditions such as glaucoma and damage to the retina may lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected early. Thema added that 80% of blindness globally is avoidable, stressing the importance of regular eye health and vision examinations.
While it is not illegal to buy reading glasses from retail stores or pharmacies, Thema noted that over-the-counter reading glasses are limited to single vision molded lenses with equal power in both eyes. These glasses are designed for individuals experiencing age-related difficulty seeing up close and are not intended to address more complex visual issues.
Thema also highlighted socioeconomic factors contributing to the prevalence of purchasing glasses on illegal or unregulated markets, such as affordability, accessibility, and lack of awareness. Many people in lower-income communities may struggle to afford comprehensive eye exams and prescriptions, leading them to seek cheaper alternatives on the black market.
To ensure the quality and safety of spectacles, Thema advised individuals to have an up-to-date prescription from a licensed optometrist and source spectacles from reputable professionals or licensed distributors. It is crucial to ensure that the lenses and frames meet the required safety and quality standards outlined by organizations like the International Organization for Standardization and the HPCSA. Regular eye examinations by registered practitioners are essential for maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss. With the rising concerns about health and wellness, it is important to stay informed about the latest developments in the healthcare industry. One way to stay updated is by reading Health-e News, a reliable source of information on various health-related topics.
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