May 17, 2017
Patients are often unaware that they have ocular allergies, says Suzanne LaKamp, OD, FAAO. Ask every patient if their eyes are comfortable, and educate patients about the products you can prescribe to improve how they feel. Let patients know you are the doctor to visit for full-scope medical eyecare, including ocular allergy treatments.
ASK. Ask patients “How are your eyes feeling?” Listen carefully for symptoms, like watery eyes, that may indicate allergies.
EDUCATE. Patients may not know they have allergies. Explain that your examination of their eyes revealed signs of allergies, and explain that you have products, like antihistamine eye drops, that can help.
SHOW. Show patients photos of their eyes from your instrumentation, so they understand how and why allergens make their eyes feel uncomfortable, and how the products you are prescribing can help them.
PROMOTE. Emphasize to patients that you are a full-scope medical eyecare provider, and the first place to turn when their eyes feel uncomfortable.
Suzanne LaKamp, OD, FAAO, is an associate at Durrie Vision in Overland Park, Kan. To contact: dr.suzanne.lakamp@gmail.com
