This was a prospective study which surveyed adults with appointments in either neuro-ophthalmology or the glaucoma service at a tertiary clinic. The aim of the study was to identify factors linked to attendance of follow-up appointments. Recruitment occurred over a one-month period in spring 2019. Participants were asked at a clinic visit to complete a questionnaire including demographics, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (Brief IPQ) and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI). Additional information about appointment activities and physician recommendations were also collected from the medical records. Participant medical records were assessed again 18 months later to check appointment attendance and adherence to other recommendations. A total of 152 participants were recruited, 80 from neuro-ophthalmology clinics and 72 from glaucoma clinics. Differences between the two groups were identified on the Brief IPQ. The neuro-ophthalmology group had a higher severity of symptoms and emotional burden and the glaucoma group scored higher for perceived timeline, lack of treatment efficacy and understanding. The authors report those under neuro-ophthalmology attended fewer follow-up appointments as recommended (55%), compared to 77% for the glaucoma group. Factors associated with higher attendance were Asian race, being an established patient and shorter follow-up intervals. The illness perception dimensions associated with a poorer attendance rate were lower confidence in treatment and poorer understanding of condition. The authors highlight there may be other factors which were not assessed by this study. Several limitations to the study are outlined with recommendations for future research in this area. Further research is required to identify modifiable factors relating to attendance to neuro-ophthalmology appointments. This would be with the aim of improving patient outcomes and optimising the use of healthcare resources.
Are illness perception or personality factors associated with follow-up appointment attendance in neuro-ophthalmology?
Reviewed by Lauren Hepworth
Patient personality and illness perceptions in relation to follow-up appointment adherence in neuro-ophthalmology.
CONTRIBUTOR
Lauren R Hepworth
University of Liverpool; Honorary Stroke Specialist Clinical Orthoptist, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust; St Helen’s and Knowsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
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