Podcast Episode Details

Strengthening the Retina Referral: How Optometrists and Ophthalmologists Can Transform Geographic Atrophy Care

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Key Takeaways

• Early detection of geographic atrophy symptoms and GA lesions is critical. Using OCT and fundus autofluorescence allows optometrists to identify changes early and refer patients before significant vision loss occurs.
• Strong partnerships between optometrists and ophthalmologists improve outcomes. A smooth referral process ensures that patients with geographic atrophy of the eye or Izervay GA candidates receive timely evaluation and care.
• Setting realistic expectations about treatment builds patient trust. Clearly explaining what Izervay is used for and potential Izervay side effects helps patients understand that therapy slows progression rather than reversing damage.

Geographic atrophy of the eye is a serious, progressive form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that can lead to irreversible vision loss. For many years, patients who asked “what is GA?” were told there was no effective treatment. Today, with FDA-approved therapies like Izervay are designed to slow disease progression, the responsibility falls on eye care professionals to identify geographic atrophy symptoms early and ensure patients enter the right care pathway. A clear referral process between optometrists and ophthalmologists is essential to deliver the best outcomes for patients with GA in eyes.

The Power of Partnership

In a recent Defocus Media conversation, Dr. Darryl Glover and Dr. Jennifer Lyerly sat down with ophthalmologist and retina specialist Dr. Daniel Bennett to highlight how collaboration changes lives. Their discussion emphasized that optometrists and ophthalmologists are stronger when they work together. A trusted relationship—built on communication, timely referrals, and unified patient messaging—creates a patient journey that feels continuous and coordinated. For patients, that means confidence and better long-term outcomes when dealing with Published on 2 weeks, 1 day ago