Ophthalmologists often have to choose retinal treatments based on financial constraints, rather than what is best for the patient long-term. A study presented at the ASRS Annual Meeting showed hidden costs of treatments, affecting patients’ quality of life and societal impact. Factors such as transportation, frequency of injections, and caregiver costs contribute to overall treatment expenses. Research on treating diabetic macular edema found that expensive treatments may not always be more effective. Another study analyzed the cost-effectiveness of treatments for geographic atrophy, finding that less frequent dosing could lead to cost savings without compromising efficacy. Overall, physicians must consider both cost and patient needs when choosing treatments.
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Retinal Treatments Don’t Just Cost the Price on the Package
