Myopia has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, with projections indicating a 50% prevalence over the next few decades, prompting the need for proactive management strategies. Professor Nick Rumney, an esteemed Optometrist from the UK, was interviewed by our Product Manager, Jarrod Power. In this article we outline the key takeaways from the interview, emphasising the need for action in combating the myopia epidemic.  

The Myopia Management series highlights the growing concern of myopia as a global health challenge, the need for proactive intervention, the role of Optometrists in myopia management, and key considerations for running a myopia service in an optometry practice. 

Addressing the importance of having myopia management as part of your optometry offering, helping to mitigate both immediate effects on children's education and overall health and potential long-term health consequences. With myopia also linked to structural changes in the eye and associated complications such as myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal detachment, interventions to prevent these disease states should be strongly encouraged. Professor Rumney emphasises the need for individualised approaches and that Optometrists play a crucial role in addressing the myopia epidemic by integrating evidence-based interventions into their practices.  

There is a range of treatment options to help your patients these days, each with their benefits, so adding a Myopia Management facet to an optometry business needn’t be difficult or require onerous work. Optometrists can add significant value to their customers with myopia education and management plans for their patients.

Professor Rumney offered a range of suggested options to implement myopia management costs for the patient into a business.  Measuring axial length was an important facet of management, as were good educational and communication tools.

Professor Rumney offered insights on establishing and running a myopia management service in an optometry practice. Utilising clinical assistants, offering care plans, and balancing product sales and clinical services are important considerations. The interview concludes by highlighting the potential benefits of myopia management for patient care and business growth.