Patients report positive experiences with optometrist-performed laser and lid procedures
Patients who underwent laser and surgical lid procedures performed by optometrists reported positive experiences, according to a study that cited improved access to care, confidence in their providers, and perceived improvements in quality of life.
Researchers interviewed 30 patients who underwent in-office procedures performed by optometrists affiliated with the Northeastern State University College of Optometry clinics. The study included patients who received selective laser trabeculoplasty (n = 8), laser capsulotomy (n = 8), laser vitreolysis (n = 4), and surgical lid procedures (n = 10). Interviews were conducted within 3 months of treatment.
Four major themes emerged from the interviews:
- Access to care
- Patient expectations
- Person-centered care
- Quality-of-life improvement.
Participants reported feeling confident in the optometrists’ ability to perform the procedures safely and effectively.
The authors noted that expanding optometrists’ scope of practice has been driven by factors including an aging population, shortages and uneven distribution of ophthalmologists, and the need to improve access to eye care.
Reference
Lighthizer N, Chen J, Niyazmand H, et al. Patient experiences of laser and surgical lid procedures performed by optometrists. Clin Exp Optom. 2026;1-9. doi: 10.1080/08164622.2026.2699980. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 42464717.
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