Study of ophthalmologists' opinions on the influence of current conditions in Ukraine on the organization of medical care for glaucoma patients.

Abstract

Objective: Aim: To investigate the professional opinions of ophthalmologists who provide medical care to glaucoma patients in current conditions in Ukraine, particularly regarding the impact of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on the organization, quality, and timeliness of medical care for these patients.

Patients and methods: Materials and Methods: The research materials were data from a voluntary anonymous questionnaire survey of 322 ophthalmologists from various regions of Ukraine who work in public and private medical institutions. Data from the Kyiv City Information and Analytical Center of Medical Statistics were also analyzed.

Results: Results: According to the ophthalmologists, the proportion of patients with secondary glaucoma (62,9±3,5%) and open-angle glaucoma (34,4±3,5%) has increased, as well as the proportion of patients with stage III glaucoma (61,6±3,4%). Since the onset of the full-scale invasion, the number of glaucoma patients seeking ophthalmological help late (74,8±2,4%) or irregularly (83,5±2,1%) has increased. A total of 62,7±2,7% of ophthalmologists report that glaucoma patients are effectively refusing surgical treatment, mostly due to a lack of financial resources to undergo the operation (82,7±2,7%).

Conclusion: Conclusions: The war has had a negative impact on the ability to provide quality ophthalmologic care, particularly to patients with open-angle glaucoma. The findings may be used to identify opportunities and strategies for improving the quality of ophthalmologic care.