Referral to low vision services by ophthalmologists

Abstract

Purpose: Reople in need of low vision rehabilitation services often experience delays in referral to services. This study investigated referral criteria of Australian ophthalmologists, the frequency of referral of their patients with low vision and their perceptions of low vision services. Methods: A survey was sent to a representative, random sample of 200 ophthalmologists. They were asked about criteria used for the referral of their patients with low vision. The survey included questions on the frequency with which they prescribed low vision devices (LVD) and referral of their patients to low vision and rehabilitation services and peer support groups. Perceptions of the quality and availa..