Colleagues: It's Time to Stop the Refract and Refer Cycle

During the lecture, “Co-Management Conundrums: Fighting the Fear Factor,” Paul C. Ajamian, OD, in part, provided strategies to help fellow optometrists determine when a referral is necessary

By: Jennifer Kirby, managing editor

Optometric Management November 15, 2025

Clinical Report: Colleagues: It's Time to Stop the Refract and Refer Cycle

Overview

This report discusses strategies for optometrists to improve their diagnostic confidence and reduce unnecessary referrals, including specific techniques for effective patient communication.

Background

The ability of optometrists to manage a variety of ocular conditions is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care, especially with evolving guidelines that emphasize co-management and patient safety.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Optometrists often lack critical patient history that can influence diagnosis.
Effective questioning techniques can uncover important medical histories, as illustrated by case examples.
Confidence should not overshadow clinical skill; referrals should be made when necessary.
Building relationships with specialists enhances co-management and patient care.
Optometrists are encouraged to manage more cases in-house to improve continuity of care.

Clinical Implications

Optometrists should prioritize thorough patient assessments and utilize effective communication strategies to gather necessary information, such as asking open-ended questions and involving family members.

Conclusion

Empowering optometrists to manage more cases while knowing when to refer is vital for improving patient care and fostering collaborative relationships with specialists.

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