Low Vision Practice and Service Provision Among Optometrists in Ghana: A Nationwide Survey

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Optometry Practice

Background:

• Low vision significantly impacts quality of life.
• Effective low vision services are crucial for patient rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the current practice patterns of low vision services offered by optometrists in Ghana.
• To identify barriers and potential interventions for improving low vision service delivery.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among optometrists registered with the Ghana Optometrists Association (GOA).
• A semi-structured questionnaire gathered data on practitioner demographics, services, equipment, barriers, and interventions.
• Statistical analysis, including adjusted odds ratios, was used to identify factors associated with service provision.

Main Results:

• A 71% response rate was achieved from 213 surveyed optometrists; 77% did not offer low vision services.
• Key barriers included lack of assistive devices and basic examination kits for practitioners, and patient unawareness and high costs for service utilization.
• Private practice, lack of basic equipment, and less experience were associated with reduced low vision service provision, while extensive experience increased provision odds.

Conclusions:

• Ghana faces inadequate low vision coverage and service delivery.
• Policy interventions are needed to equip practitioners and reduce patient costs.
• Enhancing low vision care requires a multi-faceted approach addressing both provider and patient barriers.