Mobile retinal photography. A means of screening for diabetic retinopathy in aboriginal communities

Aust N Z J Ophthalmol. 1996 Nov;24(4):333-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.1996.tb01604.x.

Abstract

Background: Mobile fundus photography undertaken by Aboriginal health workers has been suggested as a practical and effective method of screening for diabetic retinopathy among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Methods: A pilot study was undertaken to demonstrate that interpretable colour slides of the retina could be produced by Aboriginal health workers trained over a two-week period.

Results: Of 47 subjects, 36 (76.6%) had interpretable retinal photographs.

Conclusions: These findings warrant further evaluation as to the benefits and cost effectiveness of mobile retinal photography.

MeSH terms

  • Australia
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Diabetic Retinopathy / diagnosis*
  • Diabetic Retinopathy / economics
  • Fundus Oculi
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Mobile Health Units* / organization & administration
  • Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander*
  • Photography / economics
  • Photography / methods*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Retina / pathology*
  • Vision Screening / methods