Risk Management

Observers of ophthalmic procedures

Ophthalmologists or ophthalmic surgery/laser centers at times require or desire the presence of observers during an ophthalmic procedure. Such observers include sales representatives from medical device or medical equipment manufacturing companies, visiting colleagues, or family members. The surgeon and the facility have the right to refuse such requests. If they agree to allow the observer, certain steps must be taken in order to honor the patient’s right to privacy and the physician’s and facility’s duty to protect the confidentiality of medical information, and to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. Observers of ophthalmic procedures will provide an overview of the issues associated with observers, and provide a sample consent form.