The Care of Diabetic Patients by Ophthalmologists in New York State

All ophthalmologists in New York State whom the authors could identify through state sources and professional societies (n = 1655) were surveyed about eye care of diabetic patients. Over 90% recommended at least annual retinal examinations for the presented hypothetical patients. Ninety-four percent said they “usually” (31 %) or “almost always” (63%) recommend laser treatment for proliferative retinopathy, while 6% said they “occasionally” or “almost never” recommend such treatment. Almost all the latter physicians were general ophthalmologists. The decision to treat macular edema was highly dependent on the quality of the patient's vision. The percentage who “usually” or “almost always” recommend laser treatment for macular edema was 24% when the patient's vision was excellent, 63% when vision was mildly compromised, but 73% when vision was significantly compromised. General ophthalmologists and retina specialists differed significantly in their recommendations for follow-up and treatment of diabetic retinopathy.