Podcast reassurance to equity of implementation: Expanding the therapeutic potential of charles bonnet syndrome education

Plain language summary

Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) is a condition that can cause people with vision loss to see things that are not actually present, such as patterns, objects, animals, or people. Although these experiences are usually not a sign of mental illness, many individuals feel worried, confused, or reluctant to discuss their symptoms with healthcare professionals. A recent study in Therapeutic Advances in Ophthalmology showed that an educational podcast helped people with CBS better understand their condition and reduced some of the emotional distress associated with hallucinations. This finding highlights the value of simple, accessible educational tools in supporting patients. In our letter, we suggest that educational podcasts should be viewed as the first step in a broader support strategy. Education can help patients feel reassured, but it should be combined with routine screening, opportunities to discuss symptoms with healthcare providers, and clear pathways for referral when additional support is needed. We also emphasize the importance of making educational resources available in different languages and formats so they can reach people with varying levels of digital access and health literacy. By combining patient education with structured clinical support, healthcare systems may improve awareness of CBS, reduce stigma, encourage earlier disclosure of symptoms, and enhance quality of life for people living with this often-overlooked condition. Our goal is to promote practical, equitable, and patient-centred approaches that can be adopted in eye care services worldwide.