1 or 2?
We don't know whether the question has been asked for hundreds or thousands of years. We do know that it creates unneccesary anxiety for many patients. Luckily, there is new technology attempting to eliminate the need for this question. This article will discuss the process of refraction (1 or 2 test), how it can be simplified to reduce anxiety, and how new technology measures up in its attempt to make it easier and more accurate. Using the traditional methods of refraction I say "is 1 or 2 better" 150 to 600 times per day. Needless to say, I've put a lot of thought into making the test easier for patients and my vocal cords. I will compare the old fashioned methods with new technology available today. The traditional (old) process of refraction begins with gathering data. A lensometer is used to measure to correction in the current spectacle prescription. Visual acuity with the spectacles on can be used to estimate how far the prescription is off. Keratometry can...