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Carl Ellenberger, Jr, MD
Lebanon, Pa

Arch Ophthalmol. 1992;110(8):1043.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

In Reply.

—A surprising number of patients did not object—as a full appointment schedule attested. Young and healthy "clients" may consider a checkup by the eye doctor to be like a trip to the hairdresser. Fast service is important. Most, of course, are unaware of the risk of neglected glaucomatous disc changes, undetected visual field loss, peripheral retinal holes, or early neovascularization. Some may not recognize the value of a compassionate explanation by a physician of their diagnosis, therapeutic options, and prognosis. For the doctor, high performance brings more patients with cataracts, and the assembly line (I prefer "carwash") may lessen the tedium of countless examinations that have normal results.

But are we not educated physicians rather than trained technicians who operate? Is not ophthalmology a medical practice rather than eyeball mechanics? Dr Stein obviously understands the difference, enjoys his vocation, and, therefore, understood the point of my letter. . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

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