Provider and Setting
Î The performance of certain diagnostic procedures (e.g., tonometry,
pachymetry, perimetry, optic disc/RNFL imaging, and photography)
may be delegated to appropriately trained and supervised personnel.
Î However, the interpretation of results and medical and surgical
management of the disease require the medical training, clinical
judgment, and experience of the ophthalmologist. (III, G, S)
Counseling and Referral
Î It is important to educate and engage patients in the management of
their condition. Patients should be educated through oral, written, and
online information about the disease process, the rationale and goals
of intervention, the status of their condition, and the relative benefits
and risks of alternative interventions so that they can participate
meaningfully in developing an appropriate plan of action. (G, S)
Î Patients should be encouraged to alert their ophthalmologists to
physical or emotional changes that occur when they are taking topical
ocular hypotensive agents. (G, S)
Î Patients considering keratorefractive surgery should be informed
about the possible impact laser vision correction has on reducing
contrast sensitivity and decreasing the accuracy of IOP measurements.
(III, G, S)
Î Patients with glaucomatous optic neuropathy considering implantation
of a multifocal intraocular lens should be informed of the risk of
reduced contrast sensitivity. (III, G, S)
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