Confident but undertrained: South African optometrists’ reflections on communication training

Abstract

Background: Effective communication is central to optometric care; however, structured training in delivering complex or emotionally sensitive information remains limited within undergraduate optometry programmes, particularly in comparison with other healthcare disciplines. Aim: This study explored registered optometrists’ perceptions of communication skills training and their self-reported communication competence within undergraduate optometry education in South Africa. Setting: The study was conducted in South Africa amongst registered optometrists working across diverse clinical settings. Methods: A cross-sectional electronic questionnaire was distributed to registered South African optometrists. The instrument included closed- and open-ended items related to communication training exposure, self-assessed communication ability and perceived challenges. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses were thematically analysed. Results: Despite limited formal undergraduate training, most respondents rated their communication positively, with 41.2% rating themselves as good and 38.8% as excellent, while only 1.2% rated themselves as novice. Training was inconsistent: 54.9% reported seldom receiving explicit training on consultation communication, while only 15.2% reported always receiving such training. Empathy was emphasised, with 85.4% agreeing that understanding the patient’s perspective is essential. Language and cultural diversity were recognised as inherent to practice, with 42.8% rating themselves as good and 16.8% as excellent at navigating these differences. Conclusion: The findings reveal a mismatch between optometrists’ high self-reported communication confidence and limited formal undergraduate training. Contribution: The results underscore the need for structured, intentional education in communication skills within optometry curricula to align training with the demands of contemporary clinical practice.