A). Employ the use of OCT images to educate patients when describing their condition.

C). Recognize the importance of the five-year delay between glycemic control and microvascular healing

D). Urge patients to undergo combination therapy

Do not shy away from showing patients what you see on OCT and FA, says Ragui Sedeek, MD. Use chair time educating patients about their disease and the treatment strategy, their role—and commitment—in the process. It’s important to set their expectations. Consider not starting treatment on that very first visit.

Instead, focus on ensuring your patients must have the mindset that their eye disease, like their diabetes, is a chronic condition that will require ongoing treatment.

Four ways to discuss diabetic treatment with patients

Mini Quiz: Educating patients about DME