Dry eye clinical practice patterns of UK optometrists

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Primary Eye Care

Background:

• Optometrists in UK primary care play an increasing role in eye health.
• Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition impacting patient quality of life.
• Understanding practitioner perspectives is crucial for improving DED care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate UK optometrists' perceptions of dry eye disease (DED).
• To assess optometrists' knowledge and confidence in diagnosing and managing DED.
• To evaluate satisfaction with current DED treatment options.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was distributed to UK optometrists from October 2021 to July 2022.
• The survey included multiple-choice, Likert-type scale, and free-text questions.
• 131 optometrists completed the survey, reporting an average of 33.3 DED patients per month.

Main Results:

• Most optometrists used fluorescein tear breakup time, corneal staining, and lid assessment for DED diagnosis.
• 60% believed patients were managed with artificial tears alone, prioritizing preservative-free options.
• Independent prescribers reported enhanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, including increased steroid recommendations for moderate/severe DED.

Conclusions:

• Optometrists perceive DED as important, but knowledge and confidence levels vary.
• Extended primary care services did not significantly alter DED patient management.
• Therapeutic management and a stepwise approach to DED treatment are increasingly employed.