Premium IOL rates

I think this is important, so I am posting here.
Essentially, around 15-20% of patients are selecting premium IOL's.  
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June 2008 Issue of Ophthalmology Management

Following are surgeon responses to some of the specific questions that we posed to them:

Q. "What percentage of your cataract surgery patients are currently choosing premium IOLs and is this percentage trending up, down or staying the same?"

Dr. Gayton: "Our percentage varies, but is close to 20%. We have done a large number of premium lenses, especially toric. After steadily increasing, we have noticed a recent negative trend. I think that is due to the current economic downturn."

Dr. Hardten: "About 10% opt for presbyopic IOLs, with a slight upward trend as our patients and surgeons become more comfortable with the education process. Many more than that opt for astigmatic correction. I think income levels play some role, but the main characteristic seems to be age. Younger patients are definitely more motivated for the (premium) IOLs and have less co-existing pathology."

Dr. Chang: "About 15% to 20%. I don't really think in terms of consciously trying to increase the percentage. My role is to educate good candidates about them. Until we have better accommodating IOLs, too much promotion risks creating expectations that won't be met."

Dr. Korenfeld: "About 10% to 15%, with the trend increasing. I would expect it to continue to increase unless the economy cripples the consumer."

Dr. Wallace: "About 15% to 20% and trending upward due to positive word of mouth from happy patients."

Dr. Vukich: "About 15% including toric, with a gradual uptrend in premium procedures."

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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