Pediatric eye in the wild blue yonder

Abstract

Purpose/Relevance: This workshop will discuss the unique challenges of establishing and maintaining a practice in pediatric ophthalmology in a location far from an academic center. Emphasis will be placed on clinical situations encountered in remote locations and on some of the solutions employed by a panel of experienced clinicians. Remote approaches have become especially relevant for pediatric ophthalmologists since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Target Audience: Pediatric ophthalmologists and trainees. Current Practice: Pediatric ophthalmology is a multifaceted subspecialty which frequently interfaces with other pediatric specialists typically located in an academic center. Current standard of care mandates timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment regardless of geographic location. Establishing vision screening protocols, ROP coverage, genetic counseling, and post-operative care are but a few of the challenges in non-academic practice settings. Best Practice: Pediatric ophthalmologists will benefit from discussion of approaches to medical and surgical challenges that present in remote practice locales. Many of these same problems are encountered by practitioners in urban settings, when performing mission eye care, and more recently during COVID. Expected Outcomes: At the conclusion of the workshop members of the audience can be expected to learn from the collective experience of the panelists. Many of these innovative approaches are applicable to the practice of pediatric ophthalmology in any setting, thus improving patient outcomes. Format: Didactic lecture, case presentation, and open question and answer forum. Summary: This workshop will present innovative approaches to common problems encountered by pediatric ophthalmologists. These approaches are applicable to remote locations, many urban settings, mission eye care, and patient care during the current coronavirus pandemic.