Abstract:
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused profound modifications in all the fields of
ophthalmology practice in order to reduce the risk of infection transmission among the healthcare
workers and patients. Since the ophthalmic examination and treatment techniques require close
contact of the ophthalmologist and the patient, the risk of exposure to the infection remains the
main challenge during the period of pandemic.
Aim/Purpose: To present how our outpatient clinic adjusted the routine ophthalmology practice
to the local government restrictions and protocols/guidelines provided by the international
ophthalmology organizations.
Methods: At the beginning of the pandemic the country was put into the lockdown to prevent the
spread of the infection and consequently, our clinic was shut down temporarily. During this period
ophthalmologists successfully adopted means of telemedicine providing consultations to the
patients via photo or video interactions. Later when lockdown measures were lifted, we realized
that in order to sustain our practice we have to implement all the infection measures such as use
of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental and administrative control.
Results: Due to introduction of the mandatory requirements for the social distancing and
disinfection procedures our clinic experienced the decrease in the schedule volume as well as in
the number of elective surgeries. Although, economic burden is present, we realize that application
of safety protocols in healthcare practices is of vital importance. We are actively working on
integrating the telemedicine into our routine practice.
Conclusion: As the number of COVID-19 cases is dramatically increasing globally and the
epidemiological situation is still unpredictable, we are aware that all the protocols are temporary
and recommendations are constantly updated. Although, various protocols and guidelines are
suggested, maintaining the balance between saving the vision and improving safety measures is
our top priority.
