Analysis of cataract referrals from community optometrists and general practitioners and subsequent clinic visit outcomes in a university hospital in the west of Ireland.

BACKGROUND: Studies published from hospitals in other countries have reported rates of between 69 and 90% of cataract referrals being listed for surgery (1-3). This potentially represents unnecessary outpatient appointments, time off work and transport costs for patients and carers (2). AIMS: Our first primary endpoint was to assess the number of cataract referrals listed for surgery. Our second primary endpoint was to assess the number of cataract referrals which included the following: (i) that visual loss from the cataract resulted in a detrimental effect on the patient's lifestyle, (ii) that the patient was willing to have surgery and (iii) that the patient was symptomatic from their cataract.
METHODS: This project followed the Declaration of Helsinki. This was a retrospective study.
RESULTS: Between February 2021 and February 2022, 198 patients were seen in Mr. PM's cataract clinic. Overall, 129 patients (67.5%) were listed for cataract surgery. Forty-seven referrals (23.7%) reported that the cataract was having a detrimental effect on the patient's life and these patients were more likely to be listed for surgery (93.6% vs. 59.2%, p = 0.00). Twenty-five referrals (12.6%) reported that the patient was willing to undergo surgery and these patients were more likely to be listed for surgery (88% vs. 64.8%, p = 0.02). A total of 130 referrals (65.7%) reported that the patient was symptomatic from their cataract and these patients were more likely to be listed for surgery (81.5% vs. 38.3%, p = 0.00).
CONCLUSIONS: It is possible that an appropriately focussed referral form will aid in triaging cataract referrals and potentially reduce unnecessary appointments.