Access to publicly funded cataract surgery in New Zealand was found to vary by region and ethnicity in a retrospective cohort study of the National Prioritisation Web Service used by the MOH. A total of 61,095 prioritisation events for 44,403 patients were identified between November 2014 and March 2019. Mean age at prioritisation for publicly funded cataract surgery was 74.4 years and 56% of the cohort were female. The majority of patients were European (69.8%) and 9.6% were Māori. Mean best spectacle-corrected visual acuity at prioritisation was 6/30-2 and was significantly worse in Māori and Pasifika patients, who presented at a younger age (~10 years earlier) than other ethnic groups. Publicly funded cataract surgery was approved for 74.4% of prioritisation events and the surgical intervention rate varied by region.
This is a really important study as cataracts have significant impact on peoples’ lives, including their ability to drive, work and participate in ways that are meaningful to them. The results provide some clarity on the rates, severity and access to best-practice care for one eye condition. Further work is required to understand the effects of other eye health issues for Māori.
Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood
Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.
Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.
Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.
