Recent research by Glaucoma NZ Gordon Sanderson Scholarship recipient Esther Kim has highlighted key areas where we can all work together to improve understanding of glaucoma and treatment adherence.
In her study, Esther spoke with 90 new members of Glaucoma NZ. Alarmingly, over 76% of participants shared that they had little or no knowledge about glaucoma before joining, with only a vague awareness that it was an eye disease.
Many members also mentioned that, because glaucoma often shows no obvious signs in the early stages, it’s easy to overlook or not discuss with others.
Furthermore, 66.3% of patients were not familiar with their specific glaucoma subtype, suggesting the need for clearer communication and education initiatives.
(Over 76% of had little or no knowledge about glaucoma before joining, 66.3% of patients were not familiar with their specific glaucoma subtype)
Esther also looked at common challenges that members like you face in staying consistent with treatment plans. She found that barriers such as forgetfulness, lack of motivation, treatment costs, and medication side effects can make it difficult to stay on track. These, combined with limited knowledge about the disease and difficulty accessing eye care, are areas where more support could make a real difference.
Glaucoma NZ offers the right resources and services to help, but more needs to be done. So, it’s exploring new ways to provide direct educational support.
Phone calls from clinical educators to newly referred members offer chances for questions and getting guidance. Esther’s findings suggest this tailored approach, with other education, could improve treatment adherence.
Glaucoma NZ is committed to supporting you by keeping open lines of communication. By staying connected—whether through phone calls, face-to-face meetings, or educational events—it extends your glaucoma care. You should have all the information and reminders you need to protect your vision for the long term.
If you want to increase Glaucoma NZ’s impact on new members, or support future research projects, donate here today.