Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 26, 2025
Monitoring Dynamic Growth of Retinal Vessels in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model
Published on: April 2, 2021
Health Equity and Disparities in ROP Care: A Need for Systematic Evaluation
Tochukwu Ndukwe1, Emily Cole1, Angelica C Scanzera1
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
Insights
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) care requires coordinated efforts across multiple settings. Addressing social determinants of health is crucial for improving outcomes in infants at risk for this serious eye condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
- ROP management is complex, involving multiple care settings and providers, necessitating effective communication.
- Social determinants of health significantly impact care coordination and family engagement in ROP management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on disparities in preterm birth and ROP risk.
- To identify barriers to ROP care and follow-up.
- To propose patient-centered solutions for improving ROP care through a health equity lens.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of disparities in preterm birth and ROP.
- Identification of barriers in ROP care delivery.
- Analysis of social determinants of health influencing ROP management.
Main Results:
- Significant disparities exist in preterm birth outcomes, affecting ROP risk.
- Barriers to ROP care include fragmented communication and social determinants of health.
- Effective family communication and tailored solutions are vital for equitable ROP care.
Conclusions:
- Improving ROP care necessitates addressing health disparities and social determinants.
- Enhanced interdisciplinary communication and patient-centered strategies are key.
- A health equity lens is essential for optimizing visual outcomes in infants with ROP.
Abstract:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative retinal disorder that can have devastating visual sequelae if not managed appropriately. From an ophthalmology standpoint, ROP care is complex, since it spans multiple care settings and providers, including those in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), step down nurseries, and the outpatient clinic setting. This requires coordination and communication between providers, ancillary staff, and most importantly, effective communication with the patient's family members and caregivers. Often, factors related to the social determinants of health play a significant role in effective communication and care coordination with the family, and it is important for ophthalmologists to recognize these risk factors. The aim of this article is to (1) review the literature related to disparities in preterm birth outcomes and infants at risk for ROP; (2) identify barriers to ROP care and appropriate follow up, and (3) describe patient-oriented solutions and future directions for improving ROP care through a health equity lens.
