Implementing clinical informatics tools for primary care-based diabetic retinopathy screening

To improve diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening rates through a primary care-based "teleretina" screening program incorporating clinical informatics tools.

Quality improvement study at an academic institution.

Existing DR screening workflows using in-person eye examinations were analyzed via a needs assessment. We identified gaps, which clarified the need for expanding DR screening to primary care settings. We developed informatics tools and described associated challenges and solutions. We also longitudinally monitored imaging volume and quality.

The needs assessment identified several gaps in baseline DR screening workflows. Health information technology (IT) considerations for the new primary care-based teleretina screening program included integrating the new program with existing information systems, facilitating care coordination, and decreasing barriers to adoption by incorporating automation and other features aimed at decreasing end-user burden. We successfully developed several tools fulfilling these goals, including integration with the ophthalmology picture and archiving communication system, a customized aggregated report in the electronic health record to monitor screenings, automation of billing and health maintenance documentation, and automated results notification to primary care physicians. Of 316 primary care patients screened between October 2020 and July 2021, 73 (23%) were found to have ocular pathology, including DR, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and a range of other eye conditions that were previously undiagnosed.

New models of health care delivery, including telemedicine workflows, have become increasingly important for complex diabetic care coordination and require substantial health IT engagement. This program illustrates how clinical informatics tools can make substantial contributions to improving diabetes care.