FAQs

Contact Lens Patient Non-Compliance Examined

A review of the literature found overall rates of noncompliance with medical regimens varies from 24.8% to 44%
and the rates reported for contact lens wearers varies from 50% to 99%.

Researchers from the University of Connecticut Health Center looked to assess the extent of noncompliant behavior of contact lens wearers and to develop strategies of engaging and educating patients to increase compliance with safe contact lens practices. The literature regarding noncompliance with medical regimens
contact lens wear
and cleaning was reviewed. One hundred eleven contact lens wearers from a college campus
a dental clinic
and ophthalmology clinics were surveyed in a pilot study regarding their contact lens knowledge
attitudes
and practices. Statistical analysis of the results was performed with SPSS software.

A review of the literature found overall rates of noncompliance with medical regimens varies from 24.8% to 44%
and the rates reported for contact lens wearers varies from 50% to 99%. Noncompliant behavior affecting the safety of contact lenses is more common than behavior affecting lens comfort. This study found that many lens wearers thought they were compliant
but actually reported a wide variety of noncompliant behaviors.

The authors concluded that although there have been remarkable advances in contact lens science
noncompliance with lens-wearing schedules
replacement schedules
and lens care regimens remains a significant problem of contact lens complications and lens failure. Noncompliant behavior is a complex phenomenon that involves knowledge
attitudes and beliefs
and available resources. Data regarding strategies for increasing compliance are scant. Noncompliance must be considered in the development of future lens care products and must be addressed by eye care professionals when patients are fitted with contact lenses and at each follow-up appointment.

Donshik PC
Ehlers WH
Anderson LD
Suchecki JK. Strategies to better engage
educate
and empower patient compliance and safe lens wear: compliance: what we know
what we do not know
and what we need to know. Eye Contact Lens. 2007 Nov;33(6 Pt 2):430-3; discussion 434.