Present status of ophthalmological care for diabetic patients in Japan.

PURPOSE To investigate the present status of diabetic care provided by ophthalmologists working in hospitals and private clinics in Japan. METHODS Questionnaires were mailed to 315 ophthalmologists. There was a return rate of 73%. RESULTS Problems identified in the clinics were: (1) many diabetic patients who complain chiefly of ophthalmological symptoms voluntarily request their first ophthalmological examination; (2) appropriate cooperation between ophthalmologists and physicians is not established; (3) assessing the level of blood glucose control is difficult; and (4) scheduling of appointments is inadequate. Moreover, (1) inadequate handling of patients who discontinue their ophthalmological examinations, and (2) the lack of an established patient education program were seen as problems common to both hospitals and clinics. CONCLUSIONS For the resolution of these problems, comprehensive countermeasures should be developed urgently by medical associations, medical administrators, and other relevant entities.