The Study of Problems and Strategy Guidelines for Optometrists of Thailand

Abstract

The research article consisted of the following objectives: 1) to analyze strength, weakness, and the current situation of the optometrists in Thailand; and 2) to study the guidelines of strategies for optometrists in Thailand. The study was conducted by analyzing strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat, including the application of TOWS Matrix technique in creating strategies in response to the needs of optometrists in Thailand. A sample group consisted of 13 experts. The data were collected by way of a group interview. The interviewees were selected through a purposive sampling. The data on internal factors were analyzed by using the 7S technique while the data on external factors employed the PEST analysis technique. From the study, the following results are found: From analyzing strength, weakness, and the current situation of the optometrists in Thailand, it is found as follows: 1.1) On strength (S) in which the optometrists specialize in measuring visual acuity with ophthalmic equipment; 1.2) On weakness (W) in which the optometrists are unable to treat eye diseases through surgery or prescribe any medicine; 1.3) On opportunity (O) in which the optometrists are highly demanded in the labor market; and 1.4) On threat (T) in which the optometrists are unable to cover all treatments for eye diseases. The guidelines of strategies for optometrists consist as follows: 2.1) On SO strategies in which the optometrist career should be advertised in the business circle together with demonstrating their roles and ability to advise those with eyesight problems and to produce quality lenses /contact lenses; 2.2) On WO strategies in which the optometrists should work in the related business where they can use their profession knowledge and ability in producing products on eyes and providing services that are different; 2.3) On ST strategies in which the optometrists can use their profession ability to fix eye disorders with eyeglasses and contact lenses at a low cost as well as giving advice on equipment; and 2.4) On WT strategies in which the equipment and the cost of education are high; therefore, there are not sufficient optometrists to meet the demand.