[The management of glaucoma patients in Romania: analysis of an evaluation questionnaire]

To evaluate the situation of glaucoma patients' management in Romania.

A questionnaire was presented to 400 ophthalmologists with experience in glaucoma management; they have responded anonymously to 32 questions. The obtained data were subject to statistical analysis (mean, standard deviation, statistical significance).

327 ophthalmologists have responded; 70% have more than 10 years of practice; 50% are each managing 100 to 500 glaucoma patients. 2/3 of participants are using the Goldmann aplanotonometer, 38% are assessing visual field in automated perimetry, 61% are examining the optic discs using an direct ophthalmoscope and 80% are currently performing gonioscopy. 55% are treating ocular hypertension under special circumstances, 93% are using initial monotherapy, 3/4 are using prostaglandin derivates as initial therapy and 79% are resorting to fixed combinations when the initial monotherapy has become inefficient. Most participants desire to use modern diagnostic methods and treatments in glaucoma, to continuously improve the education in glaucoma management and to collaborate efficiently with other healthcare partners.

The questionnaire has provided useful information on the quality of glaucoma patients care in Romania; if it is periodically repeated (with necessary updates) it will reflect the dynamic of this issue in our country