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Enhanced access to glaucoma diagnosis and management via patient centered collaborative teleglaucoma (TG) approaches in Northern Alberta and in Ethiopia
Author(s) -
DAMJI KF
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
acta ophthalmologica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.534
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1755-3768
pISSN - 1755-375X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2014.2724.x
Subject(s) - medicine , glaucoma , stakeholder , upload , optometry , mobile phone , grading (engineering) , ophthalmology , computer science , world wide web , engineering , civil engineering , public relations , telecommunications , political science
We describe patient centered collaborative TG care models in Northern Alberta & Ethiopia (1‐3). Optometrists or technicians select high risk patients & those with possible early glaucoma, & upload structured history, exam, & diagnostic tests. Data is stored on a secure web platform (teleophthalmology.com) & graded by glaucoma specialists with recommendations for care. Validation included comparison of optic nerve features with digital 3D & 2D vs 3D slide film, and in person vs virtual exam. Stakeholder feedback improved front line & grading protocols. Some TG consults are ineffective due to patient cooperation, media opacities, & technology challenges (4). Opportunities exist for mobile phone photography of the anterior & posterior segment & leveraging ‘m health’ for e‐learning, research & patient education. Future research could focus on validation of TG models & optimal use of finite resources, including cost & comparative effectiveness. 1. J Telemed Telecare 2012;18(7):367‐73 2. MEAJO;2013:20(2):142‐9 3. Clin Exp Optom. 2013 Jun 13 4. MEAJO 2013;20(2):150‐7 Acknowledgements: Drs A Giorgis, A Mulugeta, F Kassam, S Arora, A Kurji, M Edwards, A Moalin & Secure Diagnostic Imaging