MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH IN OPHTHALMOPEDIATRIC PRACTICE – ACTUAL STATE AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

World experience shows the importance of screening for early detection of visual impairments in childhood. Timely detection and correction of the visual problem are a condition for normal physical and psychological development, socialization and good quality of life. The care over children’s eye health in Bulgaria is responsibility of the GP’s and pediatricians. The process of prophylaxis of children’s vision requires a multidisciplinary approach with participation of various specialists, every one with a specific role. PURPOSE: The aim of current study is to survey the opinion of ophthalmologists about conducting activities for prevention of children's eye health by a multidisciplinary team. METHODS: Sociological and statistical methods have been applied. An empirical sociological study was conducted for the period October 2020 - March 2021. The study is aimed at 50 ophthalmologists from medical institutions for inpatient and outpatient care in the region of Varna. RESULTS: The majority of ophthalmologists (64%) have a positive attitude towards preventive activities by a multidisciplinary team. They state high confidence in competence (78%) and assess the professional multifunctionality (56%) of the other specialists of children’s eye health in the team. CONCLUSION: The research confirms the need for a multidisciplinary approach and clear team roles. Ophthalmologists demonstrate a positive attitude towards conducting activities for the prevention of children's eye health by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They express trust and share an opinion on the wide range of functions that nurses, medical opticians and optometrists can perform in the team.