ORCID
Negin Hadjiabdolhamid: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2970-3543
Rajat Agrawal: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5116-4257
Abstract
Underserved populations in the United States face persistent barriers to eye care. This cross-sectional survey study assessed patient experience and ophthalmic care access at a free clinic serving medically underserved adults. A mixed-methods survey was conducted at the Orange County Eye Project, which provides comprehensive ophthalmology care to underserved residents of Southern California. Surveys were distributed through convenience sampling to 32 adult patients between January and February 2025, and all submitted surveys were included. Offered in English and Spanish, the survey included structured and open-ended questions addressing appointment scheduling, transportation, wait times, understanding of eye health, and overall satisfaction. Survey domains were informed by the literature, patient input, and review by team members familiar with clinic operations. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and open-ended responses were grouped into recurring themes. The mean wait time for scheduling appointments was 49 days (95% CI, 29–69), and the mean clinic wait time was 76 minutes (95% CI, 57–96). Saturday was preferred by 97% of participants. Most participants (94%) used private transportation, with a mean travel time of 27 minutes (95% CI, 20–33). All participants reported awareness of their eye condition, although 63% wanted more information. Overall satisfaction was high, with 91% selecting the highest rating. Twenty-seven interpretable responses across two open-ended items highlighted positive staff interactions, efficient service, and general satisfaction. Suggested improvements included greater appointment availability, shorter clinic wait times, and less crowding. Despite high satisfaction, barriers to care remained. Incorporating patient-identified needs may support more equitable eye care delivery.
Recommended Citation
Hadjiabdolhamid N, Dinh K, Lopez-Miranda Y, Agrawal R. Evaluating Patient Experience and Access to Eye Care for Underserved Populations at Orange County Eye Project Free Clinic: Survey Study. Patient Experience Journal. ; 13(3):301-311. doi: 10.35680/2372-0247.2177.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Included in
Business Administration, Management, and Operations Commons, Health and Medical Administration Commons, Medical Education Commons, Public Health Commons, Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons
