Comparison of resident and glaucoma faculty practice patterns in the care of open-angle glaucoma

Abstract

Background: Previous studies suggest there are large variations in adherence of ophthalmologists with the American Academy of Ophthalmology's Preferred Practice Patterns (PPPs). The purpose of this study was to compare rates of compliance with glaucoma care guidelines between resident and glaucoma faculty physicians at a single institution. Methods: Charts of resident continuity clinic or glaucoma faculty patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), ocular hypertension (OHTN), or suspicion of glaucoma were reviewed during the 2005-6 academic year. Performance within care measures specified by the 2005 PPP guidelines was compared between resident and faculty physicians using univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: 112 resident and 100 faculty charts were reviewed. The mean compliance rate for all 7 care measures for resident physicians was significantly lower than that of faculty physicians (78% vs. 96%, p∈