Glaucoma management across 13 countries in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe: an exploratory survey.

PURPOSE: To describe glaucoma management practices, access and reimbursement across 13 countries in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe (CESE).

METHODS

A structured questionnaire adapted from the 2015 European Glaucoma Society (EGS) survey was completed by one ophthalmologist with knowledge of prevailing practice and regulation in each participating country. The survey covered areas such as patient organization availability, national guidelines, residency training, access to diagnostic tools, treatment protocols, surgical techniques, laser treatments, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and moderately invasive bleb-forming shunts (MIBS), and healthcare coverage. Responses were summarized descriptively.

RESULTS

Ophthalmology residency programs varied in duration with limited surgical training access and no subspecialty glaucoma fellowships. Diagnostic protocols were relatively standardized but showed variability in tool availability and usage. Insurance coverage ranged from full coverage to none. Medical monotherapy was usually the initial treatment. Laser treatments were variably accessible, with frequent use reported in some countries and limited availability in others. The availability of MIGS and MIBS was reported as limited in most countries, with their use generally being rare or occasional.

CONCLUSION

This exploratory key-informant survey identified shared approaches alongside marked differences in training, reimbursement, diagnostic access and surgical availability. Findings represent reported practices and should not be interpreted as nationally representative estimates.