Children's National Health System

14 OPHTHALMOLOGY AND ACCESS LINE Children's National Health System welcomes Jacqueline Elise Pokusa, OD, pediatric optometrist, to its team of specialists. "DR. POKUSA BRINGS an exceptional level of knowledge and expertise to our department," says Mohamad S. Jaafar, MD, Division Chief of Ophthalmology at Children's National. "She is able to examine, diagnose, and treat eye diseases and vision problems that can be surprisingly unique to children. Dr. Pokusa manages a wide range of eye conditions in young patients, from poor vision due to refractive error or amblyopia [lazy eye] to strabismus [misalignment of the eyes] to infection or inflammation. This requires a delicate balance of clinical skills and a compassionate approach—Dr. Pokusa has both." During the initial evaluation, Dr. Pokusa works closely with the patient's family, referring pediatrician, family physician, and specialists to properly diagnose and manage the eye disease, using glasses, contact lenses, and/or patching. If the child's condition necessitates surgery for strabismus, tear duct obstruction, cataract, or glaucoma, the patient is immediately referred to one of seven pediatric ophthalmologists in the department. "Dr. Pokusa is well-trained in fitting infants, children, and special needs patients with contact lenses and explaining proper insertion and removal techniques," Dr. Jaafar says. "Patients and their families trust her supportive, open demeanor. Children's National is very fortunate to have her as the newest addition to the nation's oldest hospital-based children's ophthalmology department." For ophthalmologic referral guidelines, visit www.ChildrensNational.org/ EyeReferral. Cing Soon! Referring Physician Access Line BY LAURA WARD A Welce ADDITION The Referring Physician Access Line will soon offer timely access to Children's National Health System specialists for questions regarding consultations, referrals, and inpatient reports. Full-time specially trained staff will answer lines, ensuring a quicker response for you and your patient directly from a Children's National specialist. The Referring Physician Access Line is part of Children's plan to improve access and communication with our community physicians. We've reestablished a standardized process and hired full-time employees solely responsible for receiving calls from referring physicians so we can efficiently manage your urgent consult and appointment requests. 202-476-4880

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