Key Takeaways
- Significant regional differences were observed in glaucoma surgery rates relative to diagnosis rates among adults aged 60 years and older, despite similar demographic profiles across regions.
- Population projections indicate continued growth in the number of older adults, highlighting the need to align glaucoma care delivery with increasing demand for services.
Geographic disparities in glaucoma surgical care were identified in a nationwide analysis of hospital-based glaucoma diagnoses and procedures, highlighting potential challenges in ensuring equitable access to treatment as populations continue to age.
Researchers analyzed 11 years of registry-based data on glaucoma diagnoses and surgical procedures, stratifying findings by treatment region and area of residence. Rates of diagnosis and surgery were standardized for populations aged 60 years and older to enable regional comparisons.
Although demographic profiles were broadly similar across regions, substantial geographic variation in glaucoma care was observed. Surgery-to-diagnosis ratios among adults aged 60 years and older differed markedly between regions, suggesting variation in how surgical care is delivered.
The analysis forecast a growing population of adults aged 60 years and older, highlighting the need for healthcare systems to anticipate future demand for care.
Reference
Samuelsen JN, Eckmann-Hansen C, Rovelt J, et al. Geographic Disparities in Access to Glaucoma Surgery: Lessons from a Nationwide Registry Study. J Clin Med. 2026;15(11):4357. doi: 10.3390/jcm15114357. PMID: 42279218; PMCID: PMC13258317.
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