Understanding the changes in practice patterns in ophthalmology following COVID-19 lockdown

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The severe acute respiratory syndrome-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic significantly disrupted global healthcare systems.
• Lockdowns and public health measures necessitated rapid adaptations in clinical practice, particularly in specialized fields like ophthalmology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and associated lockdowns on Indian ophthalmologists.
• To understand the changes in practice patterns, staffing, and patient management adopted by ophthalmologists during this period.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey comprising 53 questions was administered online to Indian ophthalmologists.
• Invitations were distributed via social media and email, with a 2-week response window.
• Responses were considered valid only if all questions were answered.

Main Results:

• A total of 903 responses were analyzed, with 44.6% from private practitioners.
• 97% maintained or reduced working hours; 60.6% retained staff, and 63% did not reduce salaries.
• 73% did not revise consultation fees, 73.4% used an appointment system, and 77.7% saw fewer than 6 patients per hour.
• Only 11.7% mandated RT-PCR tests before surgery, while 62.8% tested based on symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The survey provides insights into the adaptive strategies employed by Indian ophthalmologists during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
• Ophthalmologists largely maintained operational structures, including staffing and fees, while implementing measures to control patient flow and infection risk.