World Council of Optometry and Alcon Launch Updated Dry Eye Wheel

A Standardised Framework for Dry Eye Management

The revised Dry Eye Wheel incorporates recommendations from the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) Dry Eye Workshop III (DEWS III) report, one of the most widely recognised global consensus documents in ocular surface disease.

It provides a clear, practical framework built around three core clinical stages:

• Mitigation – identifying and addressing environmental, lifestyle, and contributing risk factors
• Measurement – standardised assessment and diagnostic evaluation of dry eye severity
• Management – tailored treatment strategies based on disease classification and patient need

This structured approach is intended to reduce variability in diagnosis and improve consistency in treatment decisions across clinical settings worldwide.

Supporting Clinical Decision-Making in Practice

Dry eye disease remains one of the most common yet complex conditions seen in primary eye care. The updated Wheel is designed to simplify clinical decision-making by translating complex consensus data into an accessible, step-by-step model.

By aligning with TFOS DEWS III recommendations, the tool helps clinicians:

• Improve early identification of dry eye disease
• Standardise diagnostic pathways
• Select appropriate treatment interventions
• Enhance long-term patient outcomes through structured care planning

Complementing the Dry Eye Management Map

The updated Dry Eye Wheel works alongside the Dry Eye Management Map, an interactive digital resource developed to further support clinicians in navigating the full dry eye disease journey.

Together, these tools form a complementary ecosystem:

• The Wheel provides a quick-reference, visual clinical framework
• The Management Map delivers deeper interactive guidance and decision support

This dual-resource approach is designed to enhance both point-of-care usability and deeper clinical education.

Advancing Global Eye Care Standards

The collaboration between the World Council of Optometry and Alcon reflects a broader commitment to improving global standards in eye health. By combining evidence-based consensus with practical clinical tools, the initiative aims to support consistent, high-quality dry eye care across diverse healthcare systems.

As awareness of dry eye disease continues to grow, tools like the updated Dry Eye Wheel play a critical role in bridging the gap between clinical research and everyday practice.