The treatment burden: is it all getting too much?
8 February 2023
Winter 2023
The effort, cost and logistics of managing treatment for eye conditions can have a big impact on patients’ quality of life. What can be done to minimise their treatment burden?
The idea that the “treatment burden” affects a patient’s adherence to medications, adaptations and attending ongoing appointments, and is linked to worse medical outcomes, is emerging in healthcare literature (Alsadah et al, 2022). A wide range of chronic eye conditions and comorbidities with other diseases can have an impact on a patient’s quality of life. From drops and lasers for primary open angle glaucoma to intravitreal injections for eye conditions such as diabetic macular oedema, treatment burden can be relevant to a variety of medical interventions.
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
The GOC is consulting on an update to its 2013 Statement on the testing of sight, alongside proposed changes to the Standards of Practice for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians and the Standards for Optical Students.
An overview of the background and current treatment options available for the macular diseases retinal vein occlusion, diabetic macular oedema and age-related macular degeneration.
Twenty years on from the introduction of free NHS eye examinations for all, we are helping shape the future of eye care in Scotland.