WASHINGTON, D.C.--A recent survey released by the National Consumers League indicates that many consumers, including those who wear glasses or contact lenses, are uncertain about the differences among various eyecare providers, the services they perform and their training and education.

The Web-based survey of 600 adults over the age of 25 survey was funded by an unrestricted educational grant from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

The survey indicates consumer confusion about which eyecare professionals have medical degrees: 30 percent of respondents said they thought optometrists have earned medical degrees, and nearly 50 percent thought an OD can be board-certified. Most respondents indicated they would prefer that an eyecare provider performing surgeries (including laser), injecting /prescribing medications and offering emergency care have a medical degree.

As a followup to the survey, NCL created new eyecare resources at its Web site, www.nclnet.org. The site includes tips and a checklist of questions for patients to ask their eyecare providers about treatments and services.