Economic Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Post-Mitigation on Pediatric Ophthalmologists

Abstract

Purpose: To create a survey to assess the economic impact that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic post-mitigation (post-shutdown) has had on pediatric ophthalmologists. Methods: A 14-question survey was disseminated to United States–based pediatric ophthalmologists on the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) discussion board and on social media. Demographic data and data on the economic effect of the COVID-19 pandemic post-mitigation were collected. Results: A total of 129 pediatric ophthalmologists completed the survey. Eighty-four (65.1%) respondents reported a clinical revenue decrease of greater than 10%, 83 (64.3%) a surgical decrease of greater than 10%, and 66 (51.2%) an income decrease of greater than 10%. Fifteen (11.6%) respondents reported limiting the number of Medicaid patients. This was more prevalent among those in private practice ( P = .027). Twenty-seven (20.9%) pediatric ophthalmologists responded that they planned to retire earlier than anticipated because of the pandemic and 2 (1.6%) responded that they have retired since the start of the pandemic. Six (4.7%) respondents reported that they have sold their practice since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Pediatric ophthalmologists continue to face economic challenges introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Reduced revenue may represent a new normal for the near future in pediatric ophthalmology. These unprecedented economic upheavals come at a time when the field of pediatric ophthalmology already faces difficulties with low reimbursement and attracting new trainees. This multitude of issues may escalate into a crisis in providing appropriate pediatric ophthalmic care. [ J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus . 2022;59(5):291–295.]