Articles related to Optometry

As the aesthetic industry continues to flourish, the scope of optometry has broadened to incorporate ocular aesthetics. This not only diversifies services but also helps practitioners navigate challenges posed by low reimbursement vision plans, and online eyewear and contact lens retailers.

Unleash the power of GP lenses in astigmatism correction. Join Cristina M. Schnider, OD, to explore the benefits of GP lenses, fitting techniques, and strategies to enhance patient experience.

Discovering the nuances of normal tension glaucoma can greatly enhance your clinical acumen, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient care.

A pilot screening program evaluated the efficacy of tropicamide autorefraction for identifying high hyperopia in infants, presenting an opportunity for optometrists to detect and address this prevalent condition early on, potentially preventing future vision problems. Optometrists play a vital role in identifying and managing vision conditions in patients of all ages. A recent study conducted a pilot screening program to evaluate the effectiveness of tropicamide autorefraction in detecting high hyperopia in 2-month-old infants. The aim was to identify the prevalence of this condition and explore an early detection method suitable for a pediatric medical practice in Columbus, Ohio. The study involved 473 infants, with a gender distribution of 55.4% female, who attended their 2-month well-baby visit at a pediatrician’s medical practice. Cycloplegic refractive error measurements were taken using retinoscopy and the Welch Allyn SureSight autorefractor. A subset of 35 infants with a hyperopia measurement of ≥+5.00 D in the most hyperopic meridian during the screening underwent repeat cycloplegic retinoscopy (using 1% cyclopentolate) during a subsequent visit. The results showed that out of the 473 infants, 28 (5.9%) had high hyperopia with a spherical equivalent of ≥+5.00 D. Additionally, 61 infants (12.9%) exhibited high hyperopia in at least one meridian of […]

An experimental drug called 32-134D shows promise in preventing or slowing vision loss in individuals with diabetes, according to a study conducted by researchers at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine. The study, which utilized mouse models, human retinal organoids, and eye cell lines, focused on proliferative diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, indicate that 32-134D reduced levels of a protein called HIF, which is responsible for diabetic retinal vascular disease. The drug was found to be safer than another HIF-targeting treatment under investigation. Dr. Akrit Sodhi, the author of the study, emphasizes the drug’s well-tolerated nature and its ability to effectively reduce HIF levels in diseased eyes. Elevated levels of HIF in the eyes lead to increased blood vessel production and leakage in the retina, contributing to vision loss. The researchers tested 32-134D on human retinal cell lines and observed a return to near-normal gene expression levels, halting the creation of new blood vessels and maintaining vascular integrity. The drug was also tested on mouse models, resulting in diminished HIF levels and inhibition of new blood vessel formation and leakage. Remarkably, the drug exhibited active levels in the retina […]

Boost your clinical efficiency and reduce patient no-show rates by implementing strategies like patient education, increased accessibility, appointment reminders, and sharing examination reports with primary care providers. Reducing patient no-show rates is crucial for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of health care facilities. Research has identified various reasons behind appointment no-shows, such as emotional barriers, lack of understanding, transportation issues, financial concerns, long wait times, and difficulties with work or childcare. To address these challenges, strategies like patient education, increased accessibility, appointment reminders, and sharing examination reports with primary care providers can be implemented. Patient no-shows have a significant impact on health care facilities, resulting in missed follow-up visits and decreased efficiency. Outpatient no-show rates before the pandemic ranged from 23.1% to 33.6%, while telehealth appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic had a lower no-show rate of 7.5%. However, physical presence is often necessary for proper eye examination and essential tests. Understanding the causes behind no-show rates is essential in finding solutions. Patients may lack awareness of the importance of their appointments or experience hesitancy as time passes and their condition improves. Feeling disrespected within the health care system and long waiting times are other factors contributing to no-show rates. To […]