At the John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology, co-managed care between our optometrists and ophthalmologists highlights the strength of true clinical collaboration. This patient-centered approach ensures individuals receive comprehensive, efficient, and personalized care for all their eye health needs.
What Is Co-Managed Care?
Co-managed care brings together the unique expertise of both optometrists and ophthalmologists:
- Optometrists provide comprehensive eye care, including routine checkups and management of a wide range of non-surgical and medical eye conditions.
- Ophthalmologists complement this with advanced diagnostics, specialized medical treatments, and surgical interventions.
This collaborative model ensures patients receive seamless, personalized care from the right specialist at the right time.
Why Co-Managed Care Matters
- Improved Accessibility
Patients benefit from faster access to care, immediate referrals, and reduced wait times. - Efficient and Cost-Effective Care
Aligning patients with the appropriate level of care reduces redundancy, lowers costs, and maximizes clinic efficiency. - Lifelong Eye Health
From childhood screenings to senior eye care, co-managed care supports patients throughout every stage of life.
How Co-Managed Care Works
Comprehensive Medical Management
Patients often begin their eye care with an optometrist for initial evaluation and ongoing management.
Seamless Referrals
Optometrists refer complex medical or surgical cases to our specialty-trained ophthalmologists for advanced treatment.
Continuity of Care
Following surgery or specialized procedures, patients return to their optometrist for ongoing follow-up, ensuring consistent, long-term care.
A Win-Win for Patients and Providers
For patients, co-managed care delivers a more efficient and personalized experience. For providers, it promotes collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to excellent outcomes.
At WashU Medicine, the co-managed care model demonstrates that when optometrists and ophthalmologists work together, patient care is elevated—and ultimately optimized.