The impact of COVID-19 on managing ophthalmic diseases: an international, descriptive study

BACKGROUND: Anecdotally, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more severe cases of eye disease, decreased medication compliance/availability, and decreased treatment volume due to the lockdown. AIMS: We aim to quantify and bring together a variety of international perspectives from ophthalmologists of different subspecialties to characterize the global impact of COVID-19 on managing various ophthalmic disease. METHODS: An online survey of 10 questions was conducted among ophthalmologists using a specialized survey program. RESULTS: Fifty-two ophthalmologists were successfully contacted. Survey respondents include ophthalmologists from USA, Canada, Korea, Mexico, and New Zealand. Based on the results of our survey, 1 year after the pandemic, ophthalmic disease severity has worsened as well as a decrease in examination and medication compliance. CONCLUSIONS: Ophthalmologists across the world have reported a general increase in disease severity and decrease in medication and examination compliance 1 year after the beginning of COVID-19.