Is There a Path for an Economic Turnaround in Pediatric Ophthalmology?

PURPOSE: To create a survey that assesses potential solutions for an economic turnaround in pediatric ophthalmology and the frequency of their use.

METHODS

A 12-question survey was distributed to United States-based pediatric ophthalmologists on the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus discussion board and various social media fora. Demographic, economic, and workforce pattern data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Three hundred one pediatric ophthalmologists completed the survey. Thirty-one (10.3%) respondents used optical coherence tomography in children with amblyopia, 81 (26.9%) were a partner in an ambulatory surgery center, 133 (44.2%) had a retinopathy of prematurity financial contract arrangement with a neonatal intensive care unit to examine premature children, and 95 (31.6%) had a financial contract arrangement with an optical shop in their office. Twenty-four (8.0%) respondents were currently in the process of being or had been bought out by a private equity investor, 52 (17.3%) owned a Spot Vision Screener (Welch Allyn) for refraction, 158 (52.5%) had hired a pediatric ophthalmology extender (pediatric optometrist, technician, or orthoptist), 87 (29.5%) had recently increased their marketing profile, and 90 (29.9%) owned the property that their practice occupied.

CONCLUSIONS

Potential for a revitalization and economic turnaround in pediatric ophthalmology depends on several income-generating suggestions that simultaneously improve workforce and manpower issues, thus increasing access to pediatric eye care. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2023;60(1):25-32.].