A patient perspective of supporting mental wellbeing in ophthalmology through Five Stages of Sight Loss

Abstract

In this autoethnography, the experience of being a patient in an ophthalmology clinic is explored, within the context of the Five Stages of Sight Loss Model. The author describes her lived experience of diagnosis and critically examines her experience of receiving treatment and care within an ophthalmology clinic. The literature focusing on supporting patient mental wellbeing in an ophthalmology clinic is considered, and a patient perspective on improving support for mental wellbeing is proposed. Consistent care, clinical skills, the interpersonal skills of the ophthalmologist, and shared decision-making with patients emerge as important factors. The concept of ‘embedded counselling’ is considered.