Low MP is a significant, modifiable risk factor for AMD, and once it is detected it requires management to preserve sight. Early detection is vital and putting the right processes in, backed up with the right equipment, will help improve patient outcomes and improve a practice’s business.
Empowering proactive care management
The key message for AMD is prevention rather than intervention, through a robust screening programme and patient communications. Treatments for AMD are invasive and painful, early detection can mean the condition can be managed through supplementation, diet and lifestyle instead.
A proactive care management programme includes:
- Screening to detect those at risk of AMD
- Educating patients to ensure beneficial diet and lifestyle changes are made early
- Delay early onset or halt progression of AMD
- Reduce the number of AMD cases, relieving burdens on healthcare systems and improving patient’s lives into old age
The business case for AMD
In 2010 AMD was responsible for approximately $343 billion in healthcare costs, which are only set to increase if AMD doesn’t become routinely screened for. Our ageing population means that more and more people need to be screened early to halt or delay progression of the condition. This scenario puts forward a compelling business case for ophthalmologists.
Patients should be screened early and regularly, with fast and reliable equipment. The MPS II offers eye professionals the ability to detect, treat and prevent AMD, and in turn see more patients.
‘The MPS II is extremely good value and we have already made our money back on the device several times over through initial consultation and follow up fees. It’s a cost-effective piece of equipment, adding value to the patient and practice – we screen a notable percentage of patients with risk factors. We sell the supplements at RRP and thus make money each month the patient is using them but I feel this is ethical if you are giving them to the correct patient groups. We’ve been very active in the local area publicising what we do.’ \
Dr Scott W Mackie BSc (Hons) MCOptom PhD MFDO ABDO LVA (Hons) Dip Tp (IP). Pg Dip (Cataract and Refractive Surgery). Mod (Diabetic Retinopathy Screening). Mod (Leadership Skills)
The future of AMD?
As we are all living longer we may all experience some level of AMD by, say, our 90s. Despite this, it is still important to detect AMD early, so that vision does not deteriorate in your 60s, which could give you 30 years of impeded vision which would likely lead to blindness.
Apart from vision loss, AMD can be huge debilitating in terms of mental health, with many sufferers reporting suicidal thoughts and depressing. The inability to recognise faces, read text or watch television can impact someone’s quality of life hugely.
What next? Education is key and with that in mind we have recently published a whitepaper looking at the risk factors for AMD, to help target patients for screening. Additionally our MPS II brochure details the business case for screening.