January 15, 2025
By Glenda Aleman, OD
Myopia has become a global epidemic, affecting children at alarmingly younger ages. The World Health Organization1 (WHO) estimates that nearly 3.4 billion people will be nearsighted by 2030. Additionally, the British Journal of Ophthalmology2 reports that one-third of children and adolescents worldwide are currently affected by myopia. As we know, early onset of myopia is associated with a high risk of progression to high myopia and its associated complications.3 These long-term eye health risks underscore the importance of building a strong network of professionals, including ophthalmologists and pediatricians, to ensure early diagnosis and effective management of myopia.
Communication is Key
As more optometrists incorporate myopia management into their clinics, ongoing communication with pediatricians becomes vital. Pediatricians are often the first to observe changes in a child’s vision. Their timely referrals are crucial for early detection of myopia and prompt treatment. Early intervention significantly slows the progression of myopia, ultimately improving a child’s quality of life.
The complications that arise from myopia progression can be severe and include myopic macular degeneration, retinal detachment, cataracts, and open-angle glaucoma. Research shows that the prevalence of myopic macular degeneration ranges from 0.1% to 7% in low myopia, 0.3% to 10% in moderate myopia, and 13% to 65% in high myopia.4 Furthermore, individuals with high myopia face a five-to-six times greater risk of retinal detachment compared to those with low myopia. These statistics emphasize the critical need for timely referrals to ophthalmologists to prevent further vision impairment.
Making Introductions
Over the years, I have worked diligently to build collaborative relationships with ophthalmologists and pediatricians. What started as professional introductions has evolved into partnerships rooted in trust, mutual respect, and shared goals — especially in the area of myopia management.
Beyond professional referrals, these specialists recognize my genuine care for each patient, especially children. The positive feedback they receive from families who visit my practice reinforces their confidence in referring patients to me.
Furthermore, I prioritize keeping my colleagues updated on the latest advancements in myopia management. Sharing current research, practical insights, and thorough patient notes ensures a seamless referral process and enhances our collaboration.
Key Takeaways for Building Strong Professional Relationships:
- Consistent Communication and Engagement: Regular communication and ongoing engagement are the foundations of strong relationships. Building and maintaining these connections requires effort and intention.
- Tips for Effective Engagement: These touchpoints ensure seamless collaboration, sustained effectiveness, and strong professional relationships:
- Schedule meetings with referring physicians
- Conduct quick check-ins, i.e., phone calls or text messages weekly or biweekly
- Send progress reports back to referring physicians
- Tips for Effective Engagement: These touchpoints ensure seamless collaboration, sustained effectiveness, and strong professional relationships:
- Commitment to Transparency and Honesty: Other eye care practitioners will refer patients only to those whom they trust and believe in their practice. One way to support this is by sharing peer-reviewed articles with ophthalmologists that demonstrate the effectiveness of the myopia control treatments used in our practice.
- Reciprocity in Partnerships: Partnerships thrive on mutual support and referrals. Pediatricians and ophthalmologists refer patients for myopia management, while patients requiring specialized care are referred back to them. This two-way collaboration ensures patients receive the highest-quality care at every stage. For example, complications such as retinal holes or tears are common in patients with high myopia. It is vital to have a close relationship with a retinal specialist to co-manage these patients closely.
In summary, building collaborative relationships with pediatricians and ophthalmologists is crucial for providing high-quality, comprehensive care. By working together, we ensure that children receive timely interventions and ongoing support, ultimately protecting their long-term eye health and well-being.
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Dr. Aleman received her Bachelor of Science in Vision Science and Doctor of Optometry from Nova Southeastern University (NSU). She is the founder and CEO of iSmart Vision Care in Miami, Florida. In her mission to fight the myopia epidemic, Dr. Aleman has launched her new venture, OK Love Myopia Control Experts, a clinic and consulting company. She has lectured extensively nationally and internationally to contribute to educating others in orthokeratology and myopia management. Dr. Aleman is a myopia management professional affairs consultant for several companies, including Johnson & Johnson Vision and Topcon. Additionally, she has held the role of clinical liaison for Walmart Health Optometry in Florida, she serves on the advisory committee of the American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (AAOMC), and she is a former lead ambassador for the Optometry Divas Miami Chapter. Dr. Aleman is a founding board member of Latinos En Optometry and the new organization Women In Eyecare. To contact Dr. Aleman, email her at gmoheep@gmail.com |
References
1 Report of the 2030 targets effective coverage eye care. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2022.
2 Liang J, Pu Y, Chen J, et al. Global prevalence, trend and projection of myopia in children and adolescents from 1990 to 2050: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Ophthalmology Published Online First: 24 September 2024. doi: 10.1136/bjo-2024-325427
3 Liu HH, Xu L, Wang YX, Wang S, You QS, Jonas JB. Prevalence and progression of myopic retinopathy in Chinese adults: the Beijing Eye Study. Ophthalmology. 2010; 117: 1763–1768.
4 Flitcroft DI. The complex interactions of retinal, optical and environmental factors in myopia aetiology. Prog Retin Eye Res 2012;31(6):622–60.
