Low Vision Rehabilitation Training and Referral Patterns Among Ophthalmologists

Objective Vision impairment represents a growing burden to society and training protocols related to low vision rehabilitation (vision rehab) vary across ophthalmology residency programs. We surveyed practicing ophthalmologists regarding their vision rehab knowledge, confidence levels, and referral thresholds. We categorized subjects and compared response patterns between groups. Design Prospective observational Subjects 185 practicing ophthalmologists Methods We created an Ophthalmology Low Vision Questionnaire and administered it to all enrolled subjects via email. We categorized subjects based on duration of practice, subspecialty area, and exposure to vision rehab during residency training. We drew conclusions by comparing responses between various subject categories. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome measure was comparison of confidence levels and thresholds for vision rehab referral across groups. We used statistical tests to look for associations between practice duration, subspecialty area, vision rehab exposure during residency, and referral patterns. Results Ophthalmologists practicing for 6 or fewer years were more likely to have had a formal vision rehab rotation during their residency training compared to ophthalmologists practicing for 7 or more years (P = 0.03). Ophthalmologists who completed a formal vision rehab rotation during residency reported greater confidence in their ability to appropriately identify patients who could benefit from vision rehab referral (P = 0.04) and referred patients at earlier visual acuity thresholds (P = 0.04). Clinical subspecialty did not have a significant effect on vision rehab referral confidence or thresholds. Conclusions Vision rehab rotations during residency lead to improved referral confidence and earlier referral for these vital services. Standardization of vision rehab exposure across ophthalmology residency programs can help to improve outcomes for visually impaired patients.