Which glaucoma patients should be monitored at home and exploration of clinician perceptions on home monitoring? a survey of glaucoma specialists in the UK.

OBJECTIVES

To identify suitable patients for glaucoma home monitoring and explore clinicians' perceptions of the possible benefits and risks of home monitoring within the National Health Service.

DESIGN

An online survey composed of open-ended and closed-ended questions.

SETTING

Secondary care.

PARTICIPANTS

Glaucoma specialists registered with the UK and Eire Glaucoma Society.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Agreement with clinical scenarios.

RESULTS

The estimated response rate was 68% (n=49). Of 49 participants, 92% (n=45) were consultant ophthalmologists and 71% (n=35) had over 10-year experience. There was a poor agreement regarding an ideal glaucoma patient for home monitoring, with only one scenario achieving over 60% agreement. Most participants believed that home monitoring would be most suitable for low-risk scenarios, rather than high-risk, due to fear of missing progression. In relation to acceptability, key facilitators included the potential to increase healthcare capacity and promote patient safety. However, low clinician trust in equipment reliability and fear of patient harm were reported as concerns.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no clear consensus on which patients would benefit most from glaucoma home monitoring. While many clinicians believe home monitoring may enhance healthcare, there were also many concerns about the technologies themselves. Further work to address clinician concerns is warranted.

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