Application of clinical techniques relevant for glaucoma assessment by optometrists: concordance with guidelines

Abstract

Australian and New Zealand optometrists were well equipped to perform glaucoma assessments with the possible exception of gonioscopy. Advanced imaging modalities were not yet fully integrated into optometric practice, although optical coherence tomography has shown use by 23-32% of optometrists. A marked increase in use, availability and procedural confidence of gonioscopy and other techniques with therapeutically endorsed optometrists demonstrates the advantage and importance of additional training.

A national survey of the use of pachymeters by optometrists in Scotland: experience, views and barriers to use

“…The majority of optometrists in Australia and New Zealand indicated that they were very confident performing pachymetry (20% and 25% respectively did not feel confident) . The majority of respondents in our study also felt confident performing pachymetry (72%) and interpreting the results (81%).…”

Clinical model assisting with the collaborative care of glaucoma patients and suspects

“…The most common adjustment through the referring optometrists was the independent surveillance of medium or high‐risk glaucoma suspects, which resulted in approximately twice as many glaucoma suspects being monitored by optometrists as were recommended based on CFEH protocols, and contributed to the large number of patients that did not return for repeat examination. While these cases technically deviated from the recommended care plan, the generally good knowledge base of Australian optometrists regarding glaucoma diagnosis and management suggests that the patients are appropriately managed under the premise that they would be referred back to CFEH or referred on to an ophthalmologist as the need arises …”

Equating spatial summation in visual field testing reveals greater loss in optic nerve disease

“…Subjects fell into two groups: 13 patients with optic nerve disease and 42 control subjects without eye disease. For all participants, a full ocular examination was undertaken as outlined in previous studies . All participants were experienced with visual field testing, were fully corrected for their refractive error and their results were reliable (as per HFA manufacturer criteria: except for Goldmann V).…”