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Tele-optometry stands out as a beacon of hope for millions

Published : Wednesday, 8 January, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 420
Dr Mohd Mizanur Rahman
Telemedicine World Health Organization (WHO) has defined telemedicine as, "the delivery of healthcare services, where distance is a critical factor, by all healthcare professionals using information and communication technologies for the exchange of valid information for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and injuries, research and evaluation and for the continuing education of healthcare providers, all in the interests of advancing the health of individuals and their communities. 

Telemedicine allows patients in remote locations to access medical expertise quickly, efficiently and without travel and thereby offers a reduced-cost solution to delivering remote care when and where it is needed. Telehealth The delivery and facilitation of health and health-related services including medical care, provider and patient education, health information services and self-care via telecommunications and digital communication technologies. It is also termed eHealth and m-health. Telemedicine is sometimes used as a synonym for telehealth. Although WHO uses telemedicine to describe all aspects of health care including preventive care, many organizations use the term  'telemedicine' only to describe remote clinical services and' telehealth' to include non-clinical applications like administration and provider education and health information for the common people.  

In recent years, Bangladesh has seen a remarkable transformation in its healthcare landscape, with tele-optometry emerging as a pivotal innovation in the realm of eye care. This advancement leverages digital technology to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, offering an advanced level of service that is both accessible and efficient.

Telemedicine is an emerging field in recent medical achievements with rapid development. The "smartphone" availability has increased in both developed and developing countries even among people in rural and remote areas. Tele-based services can be used for screening ophthalmic diseases and also monitoring patients with known diseases. Electronic ophthalmologic records of the patients including captured images by smartphones from anterior and posterior segments of the eye will be evaluated by ophthalmologists, and if patients require further evaluations, they will be referred to experts in the relevant field. 

Eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinopathy of prematurity are the most common causes of blindness in many countries and beneficial use of teleophthalmology with smartphones will be a good way to achieve the aim of VISION 2020 all over the world. Numerous studies have shown that teleophthalmology is similar to the conventional eye care system in clinical outcomes and even provides more patient satisfaction as it saves time and cost. This review explains how teleophthalmology helps to improve patient outcomes through smartphones.

Tele-optometry utilizes video conferencing, digital imaging, and remote diagnostics to provide comprehensive eye examinations and consultations. This is particularly beneficial in Bangladesh, where rural and remote areas often face a shortage of specialized healthcare services. By enabling patients to consult with ophthalmologists and optometrists without the need to travel long distances, tele-optometry is making high-quality eye care more accessible to underserved populations.

One of the significant advantages of tele-optometry is its ability to provide timely diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions. For instance, patients with diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes that can lead to blindness if left untreated, can receive prompt screening and intervention through tele-optometry platforms. This early detection is crucial in managing and preventing severe eye conditions, ultimately preserving vision and improving quality of life.

Moreover, tele-optometry plays a crucial role in managing the eye care needs of an ageing population in Bangladesh. With the prevalence of age-related eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration on the rise, the ability to offer remote consultations and follow-ups ensures that elderly patients receive continuous care without the burden of frequent hospital visits.

The integration of tele-optometry into Bangladesh's healthcare system is also fostering educational and professional development opportunities. Eye care professionals can access a wealth of resources, participate in virtual training sessions, and collaborate with international experts to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field. This continuous learning and exchange of knowledge enhance the overall standard of care provided to patients.

Despite the promising prospects, the implementation of tele-optometry in Bangladesh faces certain challenges. Ensuring reliable internet connectivity in rural areas, addressing concerns about data privacy and security, and providing adequate training for healthcare providers are critical factors that need to be addressed to maximize the potential of tele-optometry.

However, with ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and a growing awareness of the benefits of telehealth, the future of tele-optometry in Bangladesh looks promising. Government initiatives, coupled with private sector involvement, are paving the way for a more inclusive and advanced healthcare system.

In conclusion, tele-optometry is revolutionizing eye care in Bangladesh by making advanced services accessible to a broader population. It is bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare, ensuring timely and efficient care for various eye conditions, and enhancing the overall quality of eye health services. As Bangladesh continues to embrace digital health innovations, tele-optometry stands out as a beacon of hope for millions, promising a future where everyone has the opportunity to maintain a healthy vision.

The writer is Vision Scientist & Researcher, Assistant Professor & Research Fellow Management & Science University, Malaysia


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