Global Ophthalmology Practice Patterns during COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• The severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic necessitated rapid changes in medical practice globally.
• Ophthalmology, involving close-contact procedures, faced unique challenges in adapting to infection control measures.
• Understanding practice pattern shifts is crucial for assessing the impact of the pandemic on eye care delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of practice patterns among international ophthalmologists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify modifications made in ophthalmology practices for emergency surgeries and routine care.
• To assess the challenges and adaptations in ophthalmology practices worldwide due to COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• An international online survey was distributed to ophthalmologists via email, social media, and professional associations.
• Survey data included practice modifications, surgical volume changes, and personal protective equipment (PPE) availability.
• Statistical analyses were performed to correlate practice changes with country-specific data and PPE access.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in surgical procedures was observed, with 46% of ophthalmologists halting surgeries and 40% performing less than 25% of their usual volume.
• 41% of ophthalmologists considered resuming elective surgeries after evaluating the situation and consulting professional bodies.
• Over two-thirds of respondents prioritized and mandated physical distancing, mask use, and hand hygiene for patients and staff.

Conclusions:

• The global survey reveals diverse practice "shut down" modes and varying capacities to manage eye care during the pandemic.
• The curtailment of ophthalmology practice had profound immediate and long-term implications on practitioners' livelihoods.
• Ophthalmologists and their staff demonstrated resilience and pragmatic adaptation to the unprecedented changes brought by COVID-19.