Co-management with optometrists helps reduce glaucoma specialist visits without compromising patient care

Co-managing glaucoma patients between trained optometrists (ODs) and glaucoma specialists (MDs) can effectively maintain patient stability over time, reduce the need for frequent specialist visits, and alleviate the burden on glaucoma specialists without compromising patient care, according to a poster presented at AGS 2025.

The research, conducted at a single tertiary care center, aimed to assess long-term outcomes for patients with glaucoma or elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) who were referred for co-management between 2016 and 2023.

The study followed 391 patients (775 eyes) with either alternating care (visits with both ODs and MDs) or transferring care (managed solely by ODs). The study focused on key metrics, including Humphrey visual field tests, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, visual acuity, and IOP. Results showed no significant changes in these indicators over the follow-up period, suggesting stable disease progression.

The transferring care group saw 16% of patients referred back to MDs for escalation, but many were later transferred back to ODs. The study found that few patients required increased medication, laser treatments, or surgery. The researchers noted that the frequency of visits to glaucoma specialists was reduced in both groups, with patients in the transferring care group having fewer follow-up appointments.

Reference
Chen E, et al. Ophthalmologist and Optometrist Co-management Model for Glaucoma Care: Outcomes from a Single Tertiary Center Study. Poster presented at: American Glaucoma Society Annual Meeting; February 26–March 2, 2025; Washington, DC.