The report illustrates substantial opportunity for the continued adoption of 1-day silicone hydrogel contact lenses, directly addressing common misperceptions held by Eye Care Professionals (ECPs) and revealing self-created gaps when compared to patients’ needs.

“1-Day Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lens Report: Does Professional Practice Align with Consumer Expectations?” is based on proprietary research among more than 450 ECPs and 1,500 consumers in Japan, the United Kingdom and United States, investigating their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. It is now available for download or online viewing HERE.

“Comparing the ECP and consumer responses shows disparities between what patients want and what is often prescribed in practice,” said Dr. Michele Andrews, Senior Director of Professional & Academic Affairs for North America. “We found ECPs’ reluctance to recommend a 1-day silicone hydrogel lens is often because of misunderstandings about cost, allergy and comfort—self- imposed barriers to adoption that run counter to the data.”

As noted in the report, nearly all ECPs (95%) agree that if cost were equivalent, they would choose silicone hydrogel over hydrogel for their 1-day patients yet feel restrained out of concern for patients’ budgets. However, 68% of consumers say they expect their ECP to recommend the healthiest option regardless of cost, and 75% of consumers are likely to follow the advice of their ECP no matter the cost.

“Patients are interested in wearing the healthiest lenses for their eyes, want to hear about those options, and are willing to pay for what their ECP recommends,” noted Michele. “Considering that 92% of ECPs agree that 1-day silicone hydrogel lenses are the best choice to safeguard patient eye health related to contact lens wear, fitting that material and modality presents significant potential to help practices succeed.”

For more information regarding the study, visit https://coopervision.ca/1-day-silicone-hydrogel-contact-lens-report