Research into glaucoma and ethnicity (ReGAE) 4: trabeculectomy for advanced glaucoma: the surgical journey of African-Caribbean patients.

Abstract

AimTo explore the experiences of African-Caribbean patients with advanced glaucoma.MethodsSemi-structured qualitative interviews were used to elicit patients' subjective experiences of becoming a glaucoma patient, receiving treatment, undergoing surgery, and its aftermath. Interview transcripts underwent narrative analysis.ResultsThe surgeon-patient relationship was central to developing effective coping strategies. Participants described their experiences in terms of what they considered were their responsibilities as patients to the surgeon-patient relationship. They also defined the surgeon's responsibilities and obligations.ConclusionsThe use of patient narratives provides a valuable resource for enhancing communication skills and relationship-centred care in the hospital eye service.Eye advance online publication, 18 January 2008; doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6703095.