Global Ophthalmology Practice Patterns during COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown

Sanjay, Srinivasan; Leo, Serene; Eong, Kah Guan Au; Adriono, Gitalisa Andayani; Fong, K C S; Anand, Kartik; Kadarisman, Rumita S.; Granet, David B.; Mahendradas, Padmamalini; Shetty, Rohit; Souza, Sharon D.; Iyer, Swaminathan P.

doi:10.1080/09286586.2021.1934037

Cited by 13 publications

(14 citation statements)

References 14 publications

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“…In the meantime, numerous survey results from different continents are available to provide further information. 15,16 Although the email distribution list for this survey used very large distribution lists covering a number of continents, the response rate was mostly very low. For future studies, it may be more successful to use different channels, such as short messaging services and local representatives.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Other surveys showed that a large proportion of ophthalmologists had no exposure to COVID-19 patients. 16 Many patients might have made the decision themselves not to seek treatment. In addition, the numbers varied greatly, both in different phases of the pandemic and regionally.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Reports from other countries also suggest that such changes will have a lasting impact on future treatment pathways. 16,[33][34][35][36] This survey found that ophthalmologists under 40 years old seemed to be the most willing to adapt their workplace practices to meet the challenges of COVID-19, took the threat of viral spread among their patients the most seriously, and suffered the greatest reduction in patient numbers during the pandemic in order to protect their patients. We must ensure that these young ophthalmologists stay satisfied with their work.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Despite sending out worldwide invitations to participate in the survey, the response rate was 1) very low overall, and 2) significantly different for the European countries compared to other countries. 16 Furthermore, these responses are a snapshot between different regional waves of the pandemic, before the availability of vaccines. All measures, introduced in their practice or by the government, are likely to vary widely over time and between regions.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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The Role and Views of Ophthalmologists During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ziemssen¹,

Kortuem²,

Kortüm³

2021

OPTH

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Purpose The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic forced ophthalmologists to adjust their working conditions to ensure patient and staff safety, while still providing effective and timely treatment. This international survey among ophthalmologists was initiated to capture what actions ophthalmologists were taking and what their opinions were on the risks of infection in their workplace, the delay in treatment, the use of telemedicine and telephone for appointments, and the regional specifications and measures implemented by the respective authorities. Methods An open-source web tool was used to develop an online survey, to which ophthalmologists worldwide were invited via e-mail using international mailing lists (Media Mice, Singapore; Texere Publishing Inc, USA; CGO Gerling) and incentivized using a lottery. The physicians provided their level of agreement relating to the offered statements and gave free answers to the questions regarding the actions taken (conducted November 5th 2020 to December 20th 2020). Results After 91,000 invitations, responses were collected from 1122 ophthalmologists. Despite the use of large international mailing lists, mainly doctors from Europe participated. Half of the participants expressed great concern about possible SARS-CoV-2 infection in their patients. A significant number of younger ophthalmologists (≤50 years: 76.9%, n = 313; >50 years: 69.6%, n = 181) feared the delays that COVID-19 could cause to treatment. Reductions in patient numbers were broadly observed, with more ophthalmologists of younger age reporting greater declines. Nearly all ophthalmologists indicated that they provided disinfectant and the majority also used masks and questionnaires for screening. For 60.3% (n = 412) of ophthalmologists, telephone calls reduced the risk of ‘no-shows’; 71.6% (n = 497) disagreed that telemedical evaluation is possible without slit lamp findings and fundus photos; and 57.0% of participants felt content with the governmental measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced the work of ophthalmologists. Based on the limited response rate, certain statements were only possible to evaluate for the European Union: with a noticeable reduction in patient numbers, delay in treatment was a major worry. Measures to protect and reassure patients should be undertaken, especially regarding those with vision-threatening diseases requiring treatment.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

See 2 more Smart Citations

The Role and Views of Ophthalmologists During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ziemssen¹,

Kortuem²,

Kortüm³

2021

OPTH

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…According to many relevant reports, the current pandemic has changed the pattern of ophthalmic emergencies world-wide. 1,2 That probably affected ocular injuries in children as well. 2,3 To expand on this matter, we present findings from our department regarding ocular traumas in paediatric patients.…”

mentioning

confidence: 99%