Improving access to eye care: teleophthalmology in Alberta, Canada

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Digital Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy affects up to 40% of individuals with diabetes in Canada.
• Access to annual dilated eye exams is limited for a third of patients due to logistical challenges.
• Teleophthalmology was developed to overcome barriers and improve eye care access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate teleophthalmology technology for identifying treatable diabetic retinopathy.
• To assess the clinical effectiveness and patient accessibility of a teleophthalmology program.

Main Methods:

• Patients received stereoscopic digital retinal photographs after pupillary dilation.
• Images were securely transmitted, reviewed using a modified ETDRS algorithm, and graded.
• Automated PDF reports were generated and sent to referring physicians.

Main Results:

• Over 5500 patients (9016 visits) have been assessed via teleophthalmology in Alberta.
• 930 patients required referral for further testing or treatment.
• Less than 2% of assessments were ungradable, primarily due to cataracts or corneal issues.

Conclusions:

• Teleophthalmology enhances diabetic retinopathy screening accessibility in remote communities.
• The program reduces treatment delays, facilitates remote patient monitoring, and prevents unnecessary referrals.
• Comprehensive teleophthalmology may decrease healthcare costs by optimizing patient management.