Teleconsultation: Ophthalmology reaching every nook and corner.

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of teleconsultation services in rural communities across India through a retrospective analysis. Teleconsultation units, also referred to as vision centres (VCs), are established in multiple rural regions, each serving a population of 20,000 to 50,000. These units are equipped with a slit lamp and a fundus photography system, and are managed by trained optometrists. Communication with ophthalmologists at base hospitals is facilitated through apps, namely Skype and Remidio. Data collected from 41 such units across 9 states over 18 months, from April 2022 to September 2023, were analysed. A total of 1,91,194 patients were examined during this time. Of these, 30,840 (16.13%) were prescribed and dispensed spectacles, 57,425 (30.03%) received medication and were followed up with at the VCs, and 23,623 (12.35%) underwent free cataract surgery. Additionally, 48,657 patients (25.44%) were referred to the base hospital for further management of more complex conditions. Given India's low doctor-to-patient ratio and the challenges in accessing quality eye care in rural areas, these findings suggest that teleophthalmology is a powerful tool in bridging the healthcare gap. It not only brings accessible and affordable eye care to underserved populations but also helps reduce the burden on tertiary care centres.