Optometrists are poised for significant advancements, focusing on a medical eye care model and improving patient care through innovative treatments and technology in the next five years.
Optometrists anticipate substantial advancements in their field over the next five years, with a particular focus on adopting a medical eye care model and enhancing patient care through innovative treatments and technologies. The vision for the future encompasses not only improved medical practices but also a deeper engagement with patients’ recreational and lifestyle needs.
On this evolving landscape, Justin Schweitzer, OD, FAAO, highlighted the importance of embracing the medical eye care model. Speaking to Optometry Times, he stated, “If you just look at the data, the stats around the sheer number of patients that are going to end up with ocular disease, glaucoma, macular degeneration, ocular surface disease, corneal conditions, it’s just something that we have no choice. We have to embrace [it] to provide the best possible care for our patients.” His perspective underscores the necessity for optometrists to adapt and enhance their skills to meet the growing demands of patient care.
Graham Erickson, OD, FAAO, FCOVD, emphasised the need for optometrists to focus more on the sports and recreational needs of patients. “Optometry is really good at addressing either academic or occupational needs of our patients, but often we neglect the sport recreation part of their life,” he explained. This approach could provide a more well-rounded service, connecting with patients on a more personal level.
The future of optometry also looks promising with advancements in treatment options. Roya Attar, OD, MBA, DHA, expressed excitement about the potential of light therapy for a range of conditions. She remarked on its growth beyond dry eye disease, stating, “Now it’s being approved for macular degeneration and advanced forms of it.” Additionally, she noted the anticipation surrounding the development of new medications for conditions like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
A holistic approach to patient care is gaining traction, with Lisa Hornick, OD, MBA, FAAO, advocating for a more comprehensive view of patients. She stated, “I would love to have more lifestyle interventions in our general practice… look at things like nutrition, exercise, stress, [and] sleep.” This perspective reflects a growing recognition of the impact of lifestyle factors on overall health and eye care.
Moreover, advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), are set to revolutionise the field. Steven Ferrucci, OD, FAAO, noted the potential of AI-driven retinal screening tools, highlighting a handheld camera developed by Optomed designed to screen for diabetic retinopathy. This innovative approach opens opportunities for optometrists to engage more actively in diabetic screenings, enhancing patient access to care.
Furthermore, Brooke Messer, OD, FAAO, FSLS, referred to the importance of fostering inter-referral systems among optometrists and ophthalmologists, suggesting that collaboration and trust could significantly enhance patient outcomes. She encouraged optometrists to pursue special interests within the profession, building a network of relationships that not only benefit professional practice but also enrich personal connections.
In summary, the landscape of optometry is expected to transform significantly over the next five years, driven by advancements in medical practices, emerging treatments, and the integration of technology. Optometrists are poised to meet the evolving needs of their patients by embracing a broader scope of care that includes sports, lifestyle factors, and innovative diagnostic tools. This proactive approach is set to enhance patient experiences and outcomes in the optometry field.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://crstoday.com/articles/july-2018/collaborative-care-models – This article supports the concept of collaborative care models in optometry, where optometrists and ophthalmologists work together to provide comprehensive eye care, including primary eye care and surgical solutions.
- https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/what-is-integrated-eye-care – This article explains the different models of integrated eye care, including the roles of optometrists and ophthalmologists in comanaging patients, which aligns with the importance of inter-referral systems and collaboration mentioned in the summary.
- https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/what-is-integrated-eye-care – It highlights the benefits and limitations of various integrated eye care models, such as the vertically-integrated comanagement model, which supports the idea of a holistic approach to patient care.
- https://modernod.com/articles/2019-mar/embracing-medical-optometry – This article discusses the shift towards medical optometry, emphasizing the need for optometrists to address advanced ocular conditions and comanage patients requiring surgical care, aligning with the future vision of embracing a medical eye care model.
- https://modernod.com/articles/2019-mar/embracing-medical-optometry – It also touches on the importance of optometrists adapting to provide care for patients with complex multiorgan diseases, reflecting the growing demands of patient care mentioned in the summary.
- https://crstoday.com/articles/july-2018/collaborative-care-models – This article further explains the roles of community optometrists and surgical practice teams in collaborative eye care, which is crucial for addressing the increasing number of patients with ocular diseases.
- https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/what-is-integrated-eye-care – It discusses the efficiency and benefits of vertically-integrated practices where optometrists handle primary eye care and refer patients to ophthalmologists for surgical needs, enhancing patient access to care.
- https://modernod.com/articles/2019-mar/embracing-medical-optometry – The article emphasizes the need for optometrists to consider lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress in their practice, aligning with the holistic approach to patient care mentioned in the summary.
- https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/what-is-integrated-eye-care – It highlights the importance of communication and collaboration between optometrists and ophthalmologists, which is essential for fostering inter-referral systems and enhancing patient outcomes.
- https://crstoday.com/articles/july-2018/collaborative-care-models – This article supports the idea of optometrists acting as liaisons between community optometrists and surgeons, facilitating a more comprehensive and coordinated care approach.
- https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/what-is-integrated-eye-care – It discusses the advantages of integrated eye care models in providing efficient treatment and surgical stabilization of patients, which aligns with the future vision of enhancing patient experiences and outcomes through innovative diagnostic tools and technologies.
