Ophthalmology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Ophthalmology, including details on eye surgery, myopia, cataracts. | ||||||||
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Emergency eye care in rural Australia: role of internet.Kumar S, Yogesan K, Hudson B, Tay-Kearney ML, Constable IJ 1Centre of Excellence in e-Medicine, Lions Eye Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia. PurposeSignificant differences exist in the utilization of emergency eye care services in rural and urban Australia. Meanwhile, influence of internet-based technology in emergency eye care service utilization has not been established. This study aims to demonstrate, from a health provider perspective, an internet-based service's impact on emergency eye care in rural Australia.MethodsThe teleophthalmology service was initiated in the Carnarvon Regional Hospital (CRH) of the Gascoyne region in Western Australia. A digital, slit lamp and fundus camera were used for the service. Economic data was gathered from the Department of Health of Western Australia (DOHWA), the CRH and the Lions Eye Institute.ResultsDuring the study period (January-December, 2003) 118 persons took part in teleophthalmology consultations. Emergency cases constituted 3% of these consultations. Previous year, there were seven eye-related emergency evacuations (inter-hospital air transfers) from the Gascoyne region to City of Perth.ConclusionsAnalysis demonstrates implementation of internet-based health services has a marked impact on rural emergency eye care delivery. Internet is well suited to ophthalmology for the diagnosis and management of acute conditions in remote areas. Integration of such services to mainstream health care is recommended.Eye (2006) 20, 1342-1344. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6702104; published online 23 September 2005. Published 12 December 2006 in Eye, 20(12): 1342-4.
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