@doltamalte because most eye drops dont need prescriptions. Plus I dont find doctors to be very competent most of the time, I try to only use them when i absolutely need a prescription or a test that I cant do myself. Even then I tend to go in already knowing what I need and make the request directly. Occasionally they can offer some good suggestions, but that seems to be the exception rather than the rule.

@freemo wow interesting skepticism of doctors, I agree not all doctors are competent, but usually the ones with years of experience and a good track records are very effective and give valuable advice.
I understand you like to do your own research, but I find it very hard to do your own eye exam and to self diagnose eye issues, for that you need special sets of equipment and a skilled doctor to interpret the results.

@doltamalte Sorry competent wasnt the best choice of words... lets go with "useful" or.. "can provide information or advice I didn't already know"

Also keep in mind we are talking about GPs and nurse practitioners here, the sort I'd see if i asked about eye drops. No doubt experts and specialist in quite a few fields this wouldnt apply to them. My spinal surgeon for example certainly knew more about surgery than me and I wouldnt go operating on someones spine and think I am as competent as him.

As for a proper eye exam, I'd agree, if i needed one I'd go to an eye doctor and get one, that isnt something I can do myself. but thats unnecesary here as I already know the cause, condition, and cure, there isnt much to examine. This has been something I had my whole life and have had my eyes examined multiple times when I got new glasses.

So in short, I agree, there is plenty many doctors could offer, but in this case none of that applies and there is nothing useful a doctor would or could do for the situation.