Does solution cost affect compliance among contact lens wearers?

Abstract

A study was undertaken to establish whether contact lens patients are likely to be more compliant with their lens care regimes if they pay a fair and proper price for their health goods because the 'worth' of these goods is reinforced. Fifty-nine patients were recruited into two groups ('nominal' or 'full' pay). After 4 months the amount of solution actually used was compared with the estimated amount. More cleaning solution was actually used by patients in the ‘nominal pay’ group, but less saline and protein remover tablets were actually used by patients in both groups (P<0.05). Corneal staining was significantly more apparent in the ‘nominal pay’ group (P<0.05). Eight aspects of lens hygiene were assessed. Only 11% of patients were compliant in all aspects but no statistically significant difference was found between patients in the two groups. In this short-term study, cost did not appear to affect the level of compliance.