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. 2022 Dec;47(12):1641-1645.
doi: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2135104. Epub 2022 Oct 19.

Low Vision Referral Patterns in Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Ryan D Larochelle  1 , Jennifer L Patnaik  1 , Anne M Lynch  1 , Naresh Mandava  1 , Kara Hanson  1 ; University of Colorado Retina Research Group; *University of Colorado Retina Research Group:
Collaborators, Affiliations

Low Vision Referral Patterns in Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Ryan D Larochelle et al. Curr Eye Res. 2022 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose: Sparse data exist regarding low vision (LV) services referral patterns. We retrospectively examined our institution's intermediate age-related macular degeneration (iAMD) patients to determine factors influencing referral.

Methods: We compared visual acuity (VA) and Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) composite and subscale scores for referred and non-referred iAMD patients. VA was collected at time of referral or most recent visit, and VFQ-25 was taken upon enrollment into the registry.

Results: Thirty-six (15.5%) of the 232 iAMD patients were referred to LV. Referred patients were more likely to have older age, worse VA in both eyes, and lower VFQ-25 scores. Univariate analysis of VFQ-25 subscales demonstrated worse scores in general vision, near, distance, mental health, role limitations, dependency, and driving. Multivariable analysis revealed lower scores in general health, general vision, and driving. Forty-eight percent of non-referred patients had VA or VFQ-25 composite scores at least as poor as the median for referred patients. Two-thirds of patients who were not referred had no discernable obstacle to referral.

Conclusions: Our institution refers patients with worse objective and functioning vision, but more patients may benefit from referral. Future studies should identify metrics to prompt referral and evaluate this approach.

Keywords: Age-related macular degeneration; low vision; low vision rehabilitation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

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