Excimer laser correction of refractive errors has not yet progressed beyond the experimental stage. It should only be used in patient-based studies. If this method is to be developed (no high research priority), this should not take place in private clinics but in teaching hospitals and should be conducted according to a strict protocol approved by the Ethics Committee of the hospital. Insurance will be required to compensate patients taking part in research for any personal injury suffered i.e. no fault need apply. The cost of treatment should not be borne by clients in the research phase. The optimistic picture presented to clients in no way reflects the state of medical science in this field. Caution in `recruiting' clients and emphasis on the experimental nature of the procedure in the information given to the public are recommended.
Other output or dissemination activity: Acceptance of recommendations: Watchful waiting by the Chief Medical Inspectorate for Public Health. No reimbursement. Changes to practice: reticent attitude in the profession. Decline of the number of clinics offering Excimer laser treatment (from 6 to 4).