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Services provided for preschool-aged children with suspected amblyopia
Alex R Kemper1, Sarah J Clark, Gary L Freed
1Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0456, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|October 17, 2003
Summary
Pediatric eye care varies between optometrists and ophthalmologists for young children. Optometrists see more preschool patients, but ophthalmologists routinely dilate eyes more often during initial evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Pediatric Eye Care
Background:
- Limited understanding of care patterns for preschool children with abnormal vision screening results.
- Variations in pediatric eye care services are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate variations in pediatric eye care services for preschool-aged patients.
- Assess optometrist and ophthalmologist availability, referral patterns, and perceived barriers to care.
Main Methods:
- Survey distributed to 542 ophthalmologists and 501 optometrists in Michigan.
- Response rate: 65% (75% optometrists, 57% ophthalmologists).
Main Results:
- Optometrists evaluated more preschool children (97%) than ophthalmologists (79%).
- Both managed amblyopia and strabismus, but ophthalmologists routinely dilated eyes more (93% vs 39%).
- Leading barrier: examination difficulty (25% vs 23%). Referral sources differed: community/self-referral for optometrists, primary care for ophthalmologists.
Conclusions:
- Optometrists and ophthalmologists have distinct referral sources and care approaches for preschool children.
- While both treat common conditions like amblyopia, differences in practice exist.
- Further research needed on outcome and cost impacts; findings should inform screening programs.