Most of us are anxious to turn the page on 2020 and welcome the new year sans a global pandemic. There is no doubt the events we have experienced have rocked our world and introduced a “new norm” we would rather soon forget. Unfortunately, this is much easier said than done. The truth is the pandemic has forever changed our lives, even in very subtle ways.

As we look ahead to 2021, it is important that we lean on our teams and focus on opportunities to enhance the patient experience.

The dry eye challenge

Based on reader feedback, one area that can be a challenge for many practices is the diagnosis and treatment of patients who have dry eye disease (DED). This issue of Ophthalmic Professional has been designed to provide content that highlights how the practice team works in a collaborative way to help patients in managing DED. Effectively managing DED can be a great opportunity for practices to meet an important need for many of their patients.

We have assembled an all-star lineup of physicians, technicians, and management personnel who provide real-world insights in providing practical solutions for patients suffering from dry eye. For example, the team at Watson Dry Eye Center in Raleigh, NC, details the steps they take in ensuring patient satisfaction in the treatment of dry eye patients (see p. 10).

We are fortunate to also feature two physician experts in the treatment of dry eye. Darrell White, MD, describes why dry eye is an issue before and after surgery, how to prevent it, and what to do if dry eye occurs post-operatively (see p. 17). Beginning on p. 20, Laura Periman, MD, details the tests she uses and how she integrates findings into the treatment of patients.

Lynn Girdlestone, COA, OSA, OSC explains how ophthalmic professionals can best explain to patients the various at-home therapies for DED (see p. 27). Matt Jensen, CEO of Vance Thompson Vision, and Brandon Baartman, MD, describe how the allied health staff can contribute to the success of dry eye treatments performed in the practice (see p. 30).

Finally, OP board member, Sergina Flaherty, COMT, OSC, CTC, explains the value of various ophthalmic certifications and offers advice on a variety of pathways to certification (see p. 34).

So, as we say goodbye to 2020, let us rally our teams around something we can control—that is, leveraging our skills and resources to better serve our patients. Wishing you much success in 2021! OP