Lessons learnt: ophthalmology service organization, single-center experience from a COVID-19 highly affected area. (4th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Romano, Mario R; Montericcio, Alessio; Pagano, Luca; Raimondi, Raffaele; Allegrini, Davide; Ricciardelli, Gabriella; Angi, Martina; Romano, Vito
• Is Part Of: Expert review of ophthalmology. Volume 16:Number 4(2021)
• Page Start: 251
• Page End: 254
• Publication Date: 2021-07-04
• Subjects: Coronavirus disease 2019 -- COVID-19 -- ophthalmology -- guidelines -- lockdown; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7005
• DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2021.1932464
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-9899

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction : The COVID-19 contagion curve is steeply increasing again worldwide; however, this time we face the emergency with different knowledge.Areas covered : In this review article, we present international guidelines and updated literature merged with our experience from hospitals in Bergamo, the epicenter of the first European COVID-19 outbreak, and provide a protocol tailored for ophthalmology professionals for organizing ophthalmology services for the second-wave of COVID-19 pandemic, to satisfy ophthalmic care needs while minimizing viral spread. Results from this strategy are discussed. We have developed a protocol that can balance safety, costs and quality.Expert opinion : Re-shaping ophthalmology practice resulted in higher costs and longer working times, but this is necessary to ensure safety. Updating ophthalmology protocols should be a priority worldwide.