Preferred practice guidelines for glaucoma management during COVID-19 pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant global health risks, impacting healthcare systems and necessitating adaptations in patient care.
• Ophthalmology, particularly glaucoma management, requires specific safety modifications to address the risks associated with the pandemic.
• The relaxation of lockdown measures requires strategies for managing routine glaucoma patients alongside emergencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish consensus-based guidelines for ophthalmologists and glaucoma specialists.
• To provide a framework for safely resuming glaucoma practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare providers during clinical encounters.

Main Methods:

• Expert panel consensus development.
• Review of current pandemic-related challenges in ophthalmology.
• Formulation of practical guidelines for clinical application.

Main Results:

• Development of comprehensive guidelines for restarting glaucoma practice.
• Inclusion of specific precautions for patient examination and management.
• Recommendations applicable nationwide for safeguarding against infection.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to these guidelines will facilitate the safe resumption of glaucoma care.
• The guidelines aim to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission within ophthalmology settings.
• Implementing these measures is crucial for protecting the well-being of patients and practitioners.