Ophthalmology Continuing Education Resources
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of legal blindness in adults over age 50. The development of agents that target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has revolutionized the treatment of AMD. Currently, three FDA-approved agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept, and brolucizumab) and one off-label anti-VEGF agent (bevacizumab) are being used to treat patients with AMD. Additionally, data from emerging anti-VEGF agents have demonstrated efficacy in improving visual acuity in these patients. However, optimal AMD management is impeded by challenges in access to FDA-approved therapies.
Step Therapy & Alternative Approaches
In an effort to control health care costs, payers use multiple mechanisms to steer the patient towards less expensive therapies. Step therapy, also known as “failed first protocol” or “tiered therapy” or “graduated therapy” is a type of prior authorization (PA) instituted by the payer that mandates that more cost-effective therapies be used before more expensive alternatives in a stepwise approach. Prior authorization can be burdensome on providers especially if streamlined processes are not implemented within the clinical workflow.
The CME Outfitters, LLC Ophthalmology Hub is designed to provide clinicians with the latest guidelines to optimize the management of patients with AMD and resources on step therapy. In addition, the Ophthalmology Hub also includes a patient whiteboard that educates patients on the step therapy process.
Health Inequities in Vision Care
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In this podcast installment of a multi-prong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) series, Drs. Peek, Ramsey, and Shoge discuss strategies vital to combating inequities in vision care. The conversation describes modern day issues in how unconscious bias, health disparities, and health inequities all influence quality of care and provide real-world action steps to improve vision care for all patients. |
Vision Care: Real-World Tactics to Address Health Inequities
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In this CME Outfitters BriefCase, faculty experts guide learners through patient case scenarios reflecting the impact of biases, disparities, and health inequities that reduce the quality of vision care for racial and ethnic underserved patients. This program provides actionable strategies, empowering attendees to identify factors and implement changes in practice to improve vision treatment. |
Patient Resources
Resource Links
Discover additional accredited CME/CE activities and patient resources on the Virtual Education Hub.