Optometrist association backs optical shop's refusal to disclose customer's own prescription to her

The Singapore Optometric Association (SOA) said it stands firmly behind an optical shop's "dedication to upholding both legal obligations and ethical standards" after the shop's refusal to disclose a customer's contact lens prescription to her.

Stomp reported that the customer had bought contact lenses from the optical shop in Toa Payoh three months earlier and her mother, Stomper Sherry, wanted to know her prescription to order new contact lenses online.

But when her daughter asked the shop for her prescription, the shop replied: "Your last order was some time ago. We have to do an eye check for the next purchase. We also do not disclose prescriptions. You may drop by for the eye check if you're going to make a purchase."

When she asked how much the eye check cost, the shop said $25 and added: "It will be waived if you make a purchase with us."

This upset the mother, who told Stomp: "It's like if you went to a specialist and your doctor refuses to tell you and your family the exact condition you have, isn't it?"

In response to a Stomp query, the Singapore Optometric Association said the handling of medical records is governed by the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) in Singapore.

Contact lenses used for vision correction are categorised as medical devices under the law and thus contact lens prescriptions are classified as medical records, which require the customer's consent for collection, use or disclosure.

While a customer has the statutory right to access his or her records under the PDPA, disclosure may be restricted if it poses a risk to the customer's physical or mental well-being.

"In this specific instance, the patient's mother revealed her intention to purchase lenses directly online and inquire about her daughter's vision status," said the association.

"It's important to note that purchasing contact lenses without a proper eye examination is not permitted in Singapore due to associated risks."

It is illegal for individuals not registered as an optometrist or optician in contact lens practice to prescribe or dispense contact lenses, whether powered or non-powered, added the association. This prohibition extends to the online sale of contact lenses.

"It is important to note that in Singapore, it is common practice to charge fees for the release of medical records," added the association.

"However, a critical component in addressing this issue lies in raising awareness about contact lens regulations. Purchasing contact lenses online without undergoing a comprehensive eye examination by a certified optometrist poses significant safety risks.

"Factors such as allergies, dryness, changes in lifestyle, and environment can render lenses unsuitable even within a short period.

"Returning to the same optometrist ensures a more comprehensive understanding of the wearer's history and eye condition."

The Stomper had told Stomp she would take her daughter to another optical shop to get her daughter's eyes checked again.