The status of the study of optometry history.

The status of optometry history was examined by searching online databases for publications on the history of optometry and the history of other health care professions and some medical specialties. There have been many fewer publications on the history of optometry than on most other health care professions or on medical specialties. Further, there are common misconceptions about optometry history even among its own practitioners. The importance of the study of optometry history is emphasized and suggestions to improve its status are discussed.