Exploring doctor-patient communication in glaucoma care: A systematic review

This review summarizes the available evidence on communication between healthcare providers and their patients in glaucoma care.

We conducted a systematic review on communication in glaucoma care. Eight databases (Embase, Web of Science (WOS), PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Scopus) were searched. We followed the six steps of thematic analysis to discover key topics related to patterns and communicative strategies.

The 17 included studies identified four main dimensions of patient-provider communication: 1) patient-provider communication dynamics; 2) patient education and empowerment; 3) medication adherence and self-efficacy; 4) sociodemographic and contextual influences. Factors identified as potentially supportive of communication and care delivery in glaucoma settings included strong patient-provider relationships, structured patient education, and active patient participation. Identified barriers included insufficient information exchange, difficulties discussing non-adherence, and sociodemographic and cost-related factors.

Communication in the delivery of glaucoma care is a complex process, which is not limited to information transmission, but also involves interactive, behavioral and sociodemographic factors.

The research results have implications for improving glaucoma care that requires continuous participation of patients. It is recommended that medical staff give priority to establishing a good doctor-patient relationship, clearly transmitting information and providing supportive interventions. Culturally adapted education and empowerment strategies may help improve patients' adherence and self-efficacy. Policymakers and healthcare institutions may support communication training and its integration into routine glaucoma care. Future research can explore cultural adaptation approaches and expand the participation of multidisciplinary team members in communication.