[Evaluation of a screening programme for diabetic retinopathy (DODIA study)]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Diabetology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening is crucial for diabetics, with low adherence in France.
• A shortage of ophthalmologists necessitates innovative screening solutions.
• Digital fundus photography offers potential for improved DR screening accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the quality of diabetic retinopathy screening using digital fundus photography with teletransmission.
• To compare this new method against traditional ophthalmological screening in a healthcare network.
• To assess patient satisfaction with the digital screening approach.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving two groups of general practitioners.
• One group utilized digital fundus cameras with teletransmission for DR screening.
• The other group used conventional ophthalmological screening methods.
• Screening effectiveness was defined by timely examination and report availability.

Main Results:

• Screening effectiveness was comparable between the digital (74%) and traditional (71.5%) groups.
• A higher prevalence of DR (16%) was detected in the digital screening group versus the traditional group (10%).
• Patients expressed a preference for the digital fundus photography screening method.

Conclusions:

• Digital fundus photography with teletransmission provides high-quality diabetic retinopathy screening.
• This technology is at least as effective as traditional ophthalmological screening within a healthcare network.
• The digital approach shows promise for enhancing DR screening efficiency and patient experience.