Objective:

To outline a streamlined approach for identifying patients with dry eye disease (DED) in a multispecialty practice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clinic flow and efficiency in patient management.

Key Findings:

• SPEED questionnaire is effective for identifying evaporative dry eye symptoms, which can guide treatment decisions.
• Meibomian gland evaluation is crucial for assessing gland function and treatment response, impacting patient management.
• Tear osmolarity testing provides actionable data and is sensitive and specific for DED, aiding in early intervention.

Interpretation:

A team-based approach involving technicians enhances efficiency and patient education in diagnosing and managing dry eye disease, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Limitations:

• Routine MMP-9 testing may not be efficient due to time constraints, potentially affecting timely diagnosis.
• Meibography is only performed at baseline exams, limiting ongoing assessment and monitoring of treatment efficacy.

Conclusion:

Implementing structured protocols and technician involvement can significantly improve the efficiency of dry eye testing and patient management in clinical settings, ultimately enhancing patient care.