Short summary

The project investigates task-shifting in the treatment of neovascular AMD to improve patient well-being, treatment experience, and quality of care. Through qualitative interviews, a vignette-based survey, and mixed-methods integration, perspectives from patients and healthcare professionals are combined. The findings will inform the development of an intervention that strengthens communication, optimises workflows, and enables sustainable resource utilisation in ophthalmology departments

Rationale

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss and requires long-term intravitreal treatment with frequent follow-up. The increasing prevalence of nAMD places substantial pressure on ophthalmology departments, and patients often experience emotional strain, uncertainty and reduced well-being due to highly intensive treatment pathways and limited dialogue with clinicians. Several countries, including Denmark, have implemented task-shifting models in which nurses perform injections and clinical assessments traditionally done by ophthalmologists. This approach may improve resource utilisation and access to care, yet little is known about how such task-shifting affects patients' treatment experiences, well-being, perceived quality of care and confidence in the treatment pathway. Furthermore, the perspectives of private ophthalmologists and optometrists on taking a more active role in treatment provision remain underexplored. The aim of the study is to improve the treatment process and quality of life for patients with nAMD by optimising workflows, strengthening communication and integrating innovative strategies.

Description of the cohort

The cohort consists of patients with nAMD who receive intravitreal treatment at the collaborating ophthalmology departments. Patients will be recruited upon arrival at the departments, regardless of the length of their treatment course, to ensure a broad variation of experiences. Participants will be recruited in outpatient ophthalmology clinics at Odense University Hospital, Sygehus Lillebælt and Sygehus Sønderjylland. Relatives may participate in interviews if the patient wishes. In addition, healthcare professionals, including nurses, optometrists and ophthalmologists involved in the care and treatment of patients with nAMD in hospital settings, will be included.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, headnurse Katrine Twisttlund Øelund

• Department of Ophthalmology, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark, headnurse Annette Lindholm
• Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Sønderjylland, Sønderborg, Denmark, headnurse Kristina Thybo Petersen