A survey of potential and previous cataract-surgery patients: what the ophthalmologist should know.

Objective: This study utilized a phone survey to characterize patient perceptions of cataract surgery and the manner in which the ophthalmologist contributes to the patient's understanding in electing cataract surgery.

Patients And Methods: Calls were made from a randomized membership list of the American Association of Retired Persons until 1,000 respondents 50 years of age or older had been recruited. Three groups were recruited: persons with no prior diagnosis of cataracts, persons diagnosed with cataracts but who had not had surgery, and persons who had had cataract surgery on both eyes within the past 5 years.