Influence of new treatment modalities on adherence in glaucoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Patient Adherence Research

Background:

• Glaucoma patient nonadherence to therapeutic regimens is a well-documented issue.
• Nonadherence is multifactorial, including poor doctor-patient communication and impacting disease progression and healthcare costs.
• Therapeutic regimens themselves can be risk factors influencing adherence rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in glaucoma treatment modalities.
• To explore alternative treatments that minimize patient cooperation reliance.
• To assess the current understanding and research focus on adherence in glaucoma management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies on new glaucoma medications and delivery systems.
• Analysis of research on novel surgical methods, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
• Inclusion of studies investigating patient adherence and related factors in glaucoma care.

Main Results:

• Selected studies covered new pharmaceutical approaches, drug delivery innovations, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
• A limited number of studies directly addressed medication or surgical adherence.
• Adherence was primarily discussed within the context of patient psychological aspects and doctor-patient communication.

Conclusions:

• Despite its significant impact on long-term outpatient care, adherence is often overlooked in glaucoma treatment studies.
• Studies focusing on psychological factors and communication issues provide insights into adherence challenges.
• Future research should integrate both adherence and miscommunication aspects for a comprehensive understanding of glaucoma patient care.