Share questions and comments in Ethics Forum

Questions about ethical issues can arise when and where they are least expected, and the AOA offers a platform to get answers.

The  Ethics Forum is a tool to encourage AOA members to ask questions and engage in discussions on ethical issues that they and their peers might be facing. 

Members can submit their questions or comment on other questions presented. Questions will be presented as "case studies," and each study will include an online poll to encourage interaction and provide real-time survey results. The most recent case study focuses on disclosing mistakes and errors to a patient.

The AOA Ethics and Values Committee will review all responses and post comments, offering opinions based on the  AOA Standards of Professional Conduct. The names of participating AOA members will remain anonymous.

Member questions may involve topics such as:

• Appropriate use of  social media
• Online reviews helping or hurting a practice
• Dealing with noncompliant patients

In some instances answers could vary, depending on state laws, such as the minimum visual acuity requirements for driving, and what's required of doctors of optometry to report to the Division of Motor Vehicles.