TO EXPAND YOUR PRACTICE, CONSIDER INCREASING LEVELS OF CARE

WITH THIS ISSUE, Optometric Management launches “Practicing Medical Optometry,” or “PMO,” a special editorial section dedicated to the practice of full-scope medical optometry. Delivering this high level of care can provide significant benefits for both patient and practice. Each installment of this section includes feature articles that discuss the diagnosis, treatment and practice management aspects of common eye-related diseases and conditions. Future PMO sections will cover AMD (May), ocular surface disease (July) and cataract and refractive surgery (October).

MORE TOOLS FOR A GROWING CHALLENGE

The topic of this month’s “PMO” section, glaucoma, has grabbed its share of headlines recently. In addition to recent advances in surgery, the FDA approved two IOP-lowering drops in late 2017. These treatments will serve a growing need: In the United States alone, the incidence of glaucoma is expected to increase from 2.7 million in 2010 to 6.3 million in 2050, according to the NEI.

Y. Shira Kresch, O.D., M.S., F.A.A.O., identifies compelling reasons for treating patients who have glaucoma in the introduction to the “PMO” section, titled “Arresting the Silent Thief” (p.19). OM owes Dr. Kresch a debt of gratitude for sharing her expertise as the guest editor who reviewed content for the section.

Technologies for the detection and monitoring of glaucoma continue to expand, notes Leslie O’Dell, O.D., F.A.A.O., in “Diagnostic Technology” (p.22). In addition to the many tests now available, Dr. O’Dell also provides a preview of several devices in the pipeline.

In “The Glaucoma Therapy Toolbox” (p.26), Danica Marrelli, O.D., discusses the classes of glaucoma therapies available. Dr. Marrelli also provides advice on when to refer patients for surgical care.

To best serve patients and maintain high levels of practice performance, Scot Morris, O.D., F.A.A.O., explains that practices must alter both normal clinical and business protocols in “Glaucoma Game Plan,” p.30. He advises, “Take the time to develop that plan, and then implement and adjust as necessary.” OM