Deterring contact lens dropout

Consider these four steps to prevent wearers from tossing their lenses

By: Erin Rueff, OD, PhD, FAAO, Dipl AAO

Optometric Management January 1, 2025 Vol 60, No. 1, Issue Jan/Feb 2025 Page(s): 10, 11, 12, 13

Clinical Report: Deterring Contact Lens Dropout

Overview

Contact lens dropout remains a significant challenge in eye care, primarily driven by discomfort and other factors such as cost and convenience. Strategies to address these issues can enhance patient retention and satisfaction with contact lens wear.

Background

Contact lens dropout affects both patients and eye care providers, leading to wasted resources and unmet visual needs. Understanding the multifactorial reasons behind dropout is crucial for developing effective retention strategies. Discomfort is the leading cause of dropout, but factors like cost and convenience also play significant roles.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Discomfort is the primary reason for contact lens dropout, often linked to ocular surface incompatibility.
Only 30% of patients who dropped out were offered alternative lens options by their eye care provider.
Patients with low tear break-up times and corneal staining are more likely to discontinue lens wear.
Proactive discussions about lens options can prevent dropout, even among satisfied patients.
Strategies for optimizing ocular surface health can improve comfort and retention.

Clinical Implications

Eye care providers should routinely assess ocular surface health and discuss lens options with all patients, not just those expressing dissatisfaction. Educating patients on the costs and benefits of different lens modalities can also enhance retention.

Conclusion

Implementing proactive strategies to address discomfort and other factors influencing contact lens dropout can significantly improve patient satisfaction and retention in contact lens wear.

PentaVision

Optometric Management