COA OD Challenges Members to Step-Up Efforts with Diabetes Patients

Richard Hom, OD, MPA, FAAO, a COA trustee, feels passionate about doctors of optometry practicing to the full extent of their licensure. He has a unique perspective due to his experience in working within the insurance industry. Right now, he says there are hurdles optometrists need to clear to help insurance providers understand the importance of ODs in the care of patients with diabetes.

“Insurance sees the optometrist’s role primarily in these cases as fulfilling the yearly dilated examination for reporting purposes,” Dr. Hom said.

”The majority of the time when an OD detects diabetes, the insurance company has been made aware even if the patient doesn’t remember being diagnosed, “ Dr. Hom stated.  Given that most “sick” patients are seen by ophthalmologists, Dr. Hom says optometrists need to help primary care medicine understand that the optometrist’s job is about more than just fulfilling a reporting requirement.

“Primary care medicine has to believe ODs have a good understanding about the risks and effects on the eye from diabetes. This awareness by primary care medicine is crucial before optometry can be invested with greater participation in diabetic education and self-care,” he said.

Dr. Hom said that health and vision plans mostly see optometrists as a value alternative to ophthalmology. To fulfill this role, he says optometrists need to inform primary care providers about their ability to recognize and potentially collaborate in the care of patients with diabetes.

“Optometrists must characterize themselves with patients as doing more than selling glasses and contacts. Our patients need to know that we are well-positioned to be partners in diabetes education and self-management in general,” Dr. Hom said.

In light of American Diabetes Month®, Dr. Hom contributed some tips for working with insurance providers in a way that will help ODs provide the best diabetic eye care possible.

• Continue education about systemic management, self-care and self-management of patients with diabetes.
• Take an interest in the lifestyle and social history of your patients. Diabetes self-management and self-care are as important to the care of the patient with diabetes as is the damage that can occur in the eye.
•  Understand the timeliness of referring a patient who has a high risk for severe loss of vision.
• Participate in reporting to the primary care provider the results of your examination and advise the primary care provider when the next eye examination is recommended.