SAN RAMON, Calif.—Eyecare professionals (ECPs) anticipate an increase in the number of patient-facing discussions, prescriptions, and treatment options for myopia management over the next 10 to 20 years, according to a recent survey conducted by CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. The company invited ECPs from across the world to share their thoughts, hopes and predictions about the future of myopia management. The survey was conducted in celebration and recognition of the 20th anniversary of the FDA’s approval of Paragon CRT, the world’s first Ortho-K lens of its kind approved for safe overnight wear.

The research shows that 80 percent of practices plan to have more conversations with their patients about myopia and its treatment options, with an average per-respondent goal to fit at least 500 patients in some form of myopia treatment over the next 10 years. In addition, ECPs agreed that the most valuable thing to accelerate myopia management adoption is more educational tools and resources.

One anonymous survey respondent called for “well-crafted literature and other educational materials to provide to parents, pediatricians and family practitioners,” identifying that “one of the biggest hurdles is the amount of time required to discuss myopia management with parents at the time of their child’s eye appointment.”

“The most significant positive change will be that optometrists, ophthalmologists and pediatricians will routinely discuss ways to slow down myopia in children with parents,” another respondent predicted.

“In the 20 years since the first iteration of Paragon CRT was introduced, we’ve seen vast change in how the industry views and uses orthokeratology in clinical practice. Ortho-k isn’t new, but for many, the concept of myopia management still is,” said Leah Johnson, OD, FAAO, director of professional affairs, CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. “We’re excited to similarly help shape the next 20 years, partnering with ECPs to provide the tools, resources and knowledge they need for success.”