Managed Care and Mental Health: Understanding Eye Diseases Impact on Children
Understanding the Connection Between Eye Diseases and Mental Health
In recent studies presented at the annual AAO meeting, healthcare executives discovered alarming associations between serious eye conditions and mental health disorders in children. Key findings indicated that children with strabismus, cataracts, and other eye diseases face significantly higher risks of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Insights from Research
Dr. Stacy L. Pineles emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging healthcare systems to assess both visual and mental health conditions in children. The research conducted by Dr. Yoon H. Lee analyzed clinical data, revealing that children with strabismus had a higher prevalence of mental illnesses compared to those without eye disease. For example, the likelihood of an anxiety disorder was approximately two times greater for children with strabismus.
Health Systems' Role
Health plans and c-suite executives are urged to incorporate mental health screenings into pediatric eye care. Addressing both visual impairments and associated mental health conditions is crucial for optimizing care delivered to children.
- Significant links between eye diseases and anxiety/schizophrenia
- Strabismus affects millions of American children
- Multidisciplinary care teams are essential
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