The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone and this includes the field of optometry. Growing up, most people are used to going to the doctor once per year for an annual physical in addition to going to the dentist for cleanings twice per year. At the same time, many people have not been used to going to the eye doctor once per year as they should. With the development of the pandemic, it is becoming even harder for people to visit the eye doctor, which has forced eye professionals to make an adjustment. The good news is that there are ways for people to work with an eye doctor even during the pandemic. Furthermore, there are ways for eye doctors to reach out to their patients and continue to help them as well.
Understand the Relationship Between Mental Health and Vision
First, it is important for everyone to understand the relationship between mental health and vision. The reality is that age-related eye disease of the arm on the leading causes of blindness. When people do not take care of their vision, they placed themselves at risk of developing severe mental health issues. Social isolation, due to the pandemic, and functional vision loss, due to age, are both linked to depression. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include changes in sleep habits, changes in eating habits, and a loss of enjoyment in activities that used to bring pleasure. By visiting with an eye doctor on a regular basis, even virtually, everyone can make sure that they take care of their eyes, which can prevent the development of mental health problems.
The Ability to Order Glasses Online
Next, for those who do have issues with their vision, it is possible to order online. Right now, people are simply not able (not willing) to go to the office of an eye doctor. Yet, they still need glasses. The good news is that people can still get their prescriptions from their eye doctor and then use this to order glasses online. By ordering glasses online, many people will enjoy a larger selection of leading glasses options from the top brands on the market. Then, they can have their glasses shipped directly to their home. By ordering glasses online, people will also be able to compare prices among more options, allowing them to find the best glasses possible at the lowest price. This means that people can save money as well.
Following Up with Patients and Doctors
Finally, patients and doctors also have to make sure they follow-up with each other a few days or a few weeks following the visit. In some cases, a phone follow-up is good enough to review the results of a virtual eye doctor examination with the patient or doctor. Many eye doctors will also provide a written rehabilitation plan for patients if they require one. In some cases, the eye doctor may want the patient to come into the office, which should be discussed with the patient. All patients and doctors need to make sure they are on the same page even if they are conducting a visit virtually through telehealth.
The Advent of Socially Distant Optometry
These are just a few of the ways that everyone can make sure that they protect their eyes during the pandemic. By working with eye doctors virtually, it is still possible for patients to receive the eye care that they deserve. Everyone should make sure they place their vision first and invest in preventative, advanced treatment strategies for the overall health of their eyes.
