Clinicians' perspectives of health related quality of life (HRQoL) implications of amblyopia: a qualitative study

Aims or Purpose: The health related quality of life (HRQoL) implications of amblyopia and/or its treatment have been reported. However the clinician’s perspective has not previously been explored. The purpose of this study was to explore the HRQoL implications of amblyopia and/or its treatment from a clinician’s perspective.

Methods: Three focus group sessions were conducted with practising orthoptists. The transcripts were analysed using “Framework” analysis to identify HRQoL themes associated with amblyopia and/or its treatment.

Results: Nine HRQoL themes associated with amblyopia and/or its treatment were identified. These included adult quality of life issues; hospital appointments; appearance; glasses-wear; patching treatment; atropine treatment; limited activities; relationships within the family; and treatment compliance.

Conclusions: The HRQoL implications identified were of amblyopia and/or its treatment was similar to those identified in the literature. Participants acknowledged a change in societal attitudes towards glasses and patching; with glasses becoming more socially acceptable. Further research is needed to explore the exact impact of amblyopia and/or its treatment from both the child and the parental perspective.