Is optometry compatible with the changing health care and hospital scene in America.

The original intent of this study was designed to determine the feasibility of adding an optometric service to an established hospital environment. As the study progressed, it took on a broader perspective. It no longer appeared relevant whether or not one singled-out suburban hospital was ready and willing to add a necessary and beneficial service. It seemed more appropriate to look more closely at the changing national scene with the health care delivery system in a state of flux. The state of transition, in turn, would affect all institutions including the state of the profession, the hospital setting, the shift in population and even the definition of health care. This paper is limited to a background study of health and hospital care.