Clinical Education Hub

Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology CE 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.

Ophthalmology

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Health Inequities in Vision Care

In this podcast installment of a multi-prong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) series, Drs. Peek, Ramsey, and Shoge will discuss strategies vital to combating inequities in vision care.

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Vision Care: Real-World Tactics to Address Health Inequities

The impact of disparities in vision care is widespread—from lower test scores in school children to macular degeneration in the aging population. Gaps in early diagnosis, treatment options and access, preservation of eyesight, and more, remain for racial and ethnic underserved populations. A culmination of biases, disparities, and inequities continues a cycle of inadequate optometric and ophthalmological care, thus resulting in delayed diagnosis and suboptimal clinical management and prognosis.