Patient use and trust of online sources for eye health information

 

Project overview

This study aims to use an anonymous online survey to better understand the information-seeking practices of patients attending Vision Eye Institute, representing the first national survey in ophthalmology to investigate the impact of social media and the internet on patient behaviour and trust in medical care.

By analysing these patterns, health practitioners can enhance guidance, resources and systems to share evidence-based information, potentially creating a more informed public and empowering individuals seeking treatment for ophthalmic conditions to make better decisions—essential for optimising both short and long-term health outcomes.

This project has received ethics approval. For further information, email the project lead Sasha Kairouz.

Research team

Ms Sasha Kairouz

Orthoptist & Clinical Relationships Manager, Vision Eye Institute

Sasha Kairouz has worked at Vision Eye Institute since completing the Bachelor of Health Sciences/Masters in Clinical Vision Sciences (Orthoptics) at the University of Sydney in 2011. After gaining 9 years of clinical experience as an orthoptist, Sasha became the Clinical Relationships Manager for NSW. Sasha has co-authored a case study in Clinical and Experimental Optometry journal titled ‘Congenital Nystagmus in Small Incision Lenticule Extraction Surgery (SMILE)’.

Headshot of Dr Tess Huynh

Dr Tess Huynh

Ophthalmologist, Vision Eye Institute

Based at Vision Eye Institute Hurstville, Dr Tess Huynh is a highly respected cataract, corneal and refractive surgeon who is actively involved in research, teaching and charity work.  Dr Huynh recently published a case study – ‘Congenital Nystagmus in Small Incision Lenticule Extraction Surgery (SMILE)’ – in Clinical and Experimental Optometry. Her other research interests include keratoconus and corneal cross-linking and new intraocular lens technology.

Headshot of Dr Lewis Levitz

Dr Lewis Levitz

Ophthalmologist, Vision Eye Institute

Dr Lewis Levitz is a highly experienced ophthalmic surgeon, with a special interest in conventional and laser cataract surgery. He consults at Vision Eye Institute clinics in Melbourne and is also the National Medical Director of Vision Eye Institute. Dr Levitz has been involved in a range of research projects investigating cataract surgery outcomes, intraocular lens technology, glaucoma and eye trauma.

Headshot of Dr Brandy Munro

Dr Brandy Munro

Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist, Vision Eye Institute

Dr Brandy Munro has degrees in science (with honours) and veterinary science from the University of Melbourne. She has more than 16 years of experience in healthcare writing and communications, with a passion for understanding how to engage and inform consumers, patients and healthcare professionals to improve the healthcare experience for all. Brandy has several research publications to her name, including in the prestigious Nature journal.