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ODs recognize benefits of extended range contact lenses
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CooperVision recently hosted a panel discussion with private practice optometrists to gain insight on patients with extreme range refractive error, the company announced in a press release.
Six optometrists participated: Jason Ortman, OD; Kerry Giedd, OD; David Geffen, OD; Barry Eiden, OD; and Ken Daniels, OD.
“I don’t think anyone would argue that fitting contact lenses to patients with high refractive errors can be very rewarding for both patients and ECPs,” Gary Orsborn, vice president of global professional and clinical affairs at CooperVision and panel moderator, said in the release. “For eye care practitioners around the world, managing these patients presents opportunities – not only for increased profitability, but also the professional esteem that it brings to their practices. But it can also be very challenging.”
The release highlighted several pearls from the panel, including the best way to deal with high refractive error patients.
“It’s important to set realistic expectations for patients with high refractive error,” Geffen noted. “They can’t compare themselves to their -1.00 D friends who walk in and out of their practitioners’ offices with lenses the first day and pay less. These patients require more expertise and more work on the part of the doctor. At the end of the day, patients look for providers that are going to help them, and that’s our goal.”
The optometrists also discussed the benefits of silicone hydrogel for extreme range refractive error patients.
“Biofinity XR lenses bring new benefits to patients within an extreme range of refractive errors,” Giedd said during the discussion. “The convenience of a more frequently replaced lens and the greater oxygen transmissibility of a silicone hydrogel, which decreases corneal neovascularization and promotes better overall long-term corneal health, fill a tremendous need in my practice. There is a huge opportunity to make these patients’ lives better in more breathable and disposable lenses.”
Additionally, the panelists noted that the industry needs more extended range toric lenses.