Basic ophthalmic assessment and care workshops for rural health workers

The inequitable distribution of medical services in Australia means that many rural dwellers do not have easy access to ophthalmic care. In regions with no medical personnel, appropriately trained rural health workers may provide ophthalmic assessment, primary treatment, and, in some circumstances, definitive care. In areas with overburdened services, these rural health workers may augment facilities already established. In an attempt to improve the accessibility and quality of ophthalmic services available to presently disadvantaged rural inhabitants, the aims, curriculum, and structure of a 'Basic Ophthalmic Assessment and Care Workshop', for the transfer of knowledge and skills to such rural health workers, is presented.