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Eye care and the medical student: where should emphasis be placed in undergraduate ophthalmology?

The views of three groups of British doctors on the content and duration of an undergraduate ophthalmology course were identified by means of a questionnaire. Non-ophthalmic hospital consultants considered the duration of a course should be approximately two weeks shorter than general practitioners and ophthalmologists. There were also significant differences in opinion between ophthalmologists and the other two groups on course content, but results indicated that emphasis should be placed on topics involving the identification of treatable sight-threatening conditions, and the primary eye care function of recognition and management of common external eye disorders.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗

Patient-focused urban tele-ophthalmology services.

Since 2000, routine tele-ophthalmology services have been provided by St Erik's Eye Hospital to three large urban primary care centres in Stockholm. Diagnostic support from the specialist eye hospital to primary care centres uses video slit-lamps and realtime videoconferencing. After the initial introduction period at the primary care centres, the number of teleconsultations stabilized at a very low level. Despite this, the general practitioners learned to handle more diagnostic conditions by themselves and to identify what diagnostic situations should be referred to a specialist without having to consult the specialist beforehand via telemedicine. The availability of instant eye expertise via telemedicine therefore proved to be an excellent on-the-job training tool to develop and maintain the diagnostic competence of general practitioners. Patient satisfaction was high.

Eye Diseases↗

Improving the quality of eye care with tele-ophthalmology: shared-care glaucoma screening.

We evaluated a shared-care tele-ophthalmology service initiated by the Rotterdam Eye Hospital and 10 optometrists working in retail optician stores. The optometrists screened their clients with a nerve fibre analyser and the resulting images were then further assessed by trained technicians at the hospital. We analysed data from 1729 patients and measured several indicators of the quality of the work as well as its efficiency and effectiveness. The quality of the images was at least satisfactory in most cases (89%), and the agreement between the optometrists and the hospital about normal or suspect test results was high (81%). Only 27% of the patients were called for additional testing at the hospital department and 11% consulted an ophthalmologist. Eighty new cases of glaucoma were detected. The combination of task redesign and telemedicine accounted for the success of the screening service. Task redesign was needed to transfer screening from the hospital to primary care in a safe and responsible way. Telemedicine was crucial for assuring quality, facilitating information exchange and for coordination.

Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological↗

Audit of Web-based telemedicine in ophthalmology.

A Web-based service was set up to link subspecialist ophthalmologists with those seeking advice on particular clinical problems in ophthalmology. The service operated between countries, with centres in Malaysia, Ghana, Tanzania, South Africa and Gambia seeking advice from Moorfields Eye Hospital in the UK. It also operated within country, where a rural clinic in The Gambia sought advice from the central hospital on difficult cases or cases for possible referral. Provision of Web access and training in image capture and manipulation were undertaken in each participating centre. During the first 12 months, 132 cases were posted to the Website from five of the six centres participating. The rate of case referral rose to about 12-14 cases per month by the end of the study. Overall, 24% of referrals did not use images. In the first four months the response time was 13 days, and in the last four months it was three days. Most cases were answered with a single response from the specialist. The main problem was the amount of Internet down-time in each of the locations. The main benefit was safe and reliable access to specialist advice for practitioners.

England↗

The use of information technologies for diagnosis in ophthalmology.

In 2003, a health IT programme for clinical decision support started in Lithuania. An initial goal was to create databases for ophthalmology images and to develop processing algorithms to extract diagnostically valuable information from images. We have investigated how vectors, consisting of the parameters derived from fundus images, are distributed and whether they form specific groups. When analysing the multidimensional patient data vectors, comprising all the 27 image parameters, it was impossible to separate the healthy eyes from the diseased ones. However, it was possible to simplify the system by eliminating redundant parameters and introducing new ones that represent a subset of parameters from the initial group. Thus it may prove possible to identify glaucoma using this system of parameters.

Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological↗

Impact of health care reform on the business and practice of ophthalmology.

This study examines the attitudes and opinions of 122 Texas ophthalmologists facing the health care reform movement. It illustrates the commercial practice of ophthalmology today, how practitioners would like it to be, and what they see as the future trends. The study also explores the options and future plans of ophthalmologists for maintaining practice revenues.

Analysis of Variance↗

Uses and complications of mitomycin C in ophthalmology.

Mitomycin C is a chemotherapeutic agent that acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis. Its use and application in ophthalmology has been increasing in recent years because of its modulatory effects on wound healing. Current applications include pterygium surgery, glaucoma surgery, corneal refractive surgery, cicatricial eye disease, conjunctival neoplasia and allergic eye disease. Although it has been used successfully in these conditions, it has also been associated with significant complications. This article reviews the current trends and uses of mitomycin C in the eye and its reported complications.

Eye Diseases↗

[Ophthalmological service quality offered to outpatients of the Public Healthcare System].

PURPOSE: To identify the perception of the ophthalmic service quality provided for outpatients of the public healthcare system as well as to detect which actions should be considered necessary and priority in order to improve its quality. METHODS: A quantitative descriptive study was carried out on 100 outpatients of the public healthcare system which were submitted to ophthalmic tests at Fundação Hilton Rocha--Belo Horizonte-MG, from July 1st-July 30th 2004. Individual interviews were carried out by giving the interviewees two structured questionnaires adapted from the modified SERVQUAL. This scale is in agreement with the reality of the studied institute. RESULTS: The adapted SERVQUAL scale was submitted to statistical validation and it showed a suitable internal consistency index. In general terms, a slight general dissatisfaction was detected regarding ophthalmological service quality. The interviewees cared more about safety and reliability. A higher degree of dissatisfaction was detected mainly concerning fulfillment of procedures at scheduled appointments related to the execution of services within due time-limits. CONCLUSIONS: The institute is supposed to plan as well as carry out actions which lead to a general improvement in the patient's satisfaction regarding service quality and mainly reliability. Service quality monitoring through periodic use of the SERVQUAL scale will not only make it possible to plan highly precise and effective intervention strategies in these and in other healthcare services but it will also allow monitoring the responses to these actions. All these actions will contribute to the improvement of the service in the system as a whole.

Adolescent↗

Comparative study of scientific publications in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay (1995-2004).

PURPOSE: The study aimed to measure the scientific production in Ophthalmology and Vision (O&V) in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay over a period of 10 years (1995-2004), in order to find out temporal evolution and variations in this field of research. METHODS: PubMed / Medline was used to retrieve records on O&V research literature. The search strategy included keywords, country in the affiliation field and publication date. Data were extracted from each citation and recorded in a spreadsheet. Subsequent analysis focused on type and main topic of publication, journals where articles had been published, and evolution of research done on animals and humans. RESULTS: A total of 1,216 citations were retrieved. Brazil had the largest number of authored publications with an average annual production of 82.4, followed by Argentina with 31.0, Chile 6.4, Uruguay 1.6, and Paraguay 0.2. The ratio of articles on O&V relative to publications involving Health Science ranged from 1.0 to 2.3. The frequency of publications almost tripled from 1995 to 2004. Research on humans showed a significant increase in Argentina and Brazil. CONCLUSIONS: Results provide initial benchmarks on O&V publication rates in countries in South America that may be useful to follow research trends.

Animals↗

Formative evaluation of a multimedia CAL program in an ophthalmology clerkship.

The use of computer-aided learning (CAL) in medical education has grown considerably in recent years. CAL has a number of attractive educational features, and computer simulations have been shown to improve learning in health professions education. This paper describes the formative evaluation of a multimedia CAL simulation used in a third year ophthalmology clerkship. The CAL program combines the use of a Macintosh computer with a mannequin head, housing two motor driven camera diaphragms which simulate pupil response. This allows students to practice the "swinging flashlight test", an important clinical exam commonly used to detect visual dysfunction. Five questions are addressed in this study and the formative evaluation process is described. The highly positive results are then presented, with suggestions given for improvement followed by implications for future development.

Clinical Clerkship↗

Telemedicine framework and applications in dermatology and ophthalmology.

Medicine has to balance between the advantages and costs of new technology. As the significance of technical aids has increased, medicine has become more tightly bound to technology. Telemedicine is one of the fastest developing fields, as its development is connected to the development of telecommunication and information technology. Technology sets the ultimate restrictions to telemedicine. However, most challenges are nontechnical. Fast development makes it difficult to perform generalizable studies on the field, and the lack of practical, applicable standardization hinders telemedical system design. The cost of technology is quickly falling compared with the cost of human labour. Because of these factors the efficient use of telemedicine requires strategic decisions at the level of the organization as well as more research concerning the effects of telemedicine on medical practice. This article describes the telemedical frame of reference by using dermatology and ophthalmology as examples.

Dermatology↗

Residency selection perceptions held by diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists and veterinary ophthalmology residency applicant data.

Diplomates from the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (DACVOs) who do not select residents concur with DACVOs involved in the selection of residents that it is a subjective process. Both groups believe that residents are selected on the basis of their perceived intelligence, hardworking attitude, and effective communication skills, along with the impression that the resident will fit well into a particular work environment. Survey data from successful veterinary ophthalmology resident applicants identify several helpful criteria. Applicants should have demonstrated academic achievement, including publication or presentation of information. Achievement of an advanced degree was helpful in obtaining a program. Although interviews may not be required for application to a program, they are extremely helpful in obtaining a position. Excellent communication skills are an asset.

Attitude↗

Teaching the didactic aspects of ophthalmology and dermatology using an off-site instructor.

A shortage of veterinary educators in various clinical disciplines is requiring faculty at veterinary schools to develop novel approaches to teaching professional students a core of information in each major clinical discipline. This article presents experiences at Washington State University (WSU) College of Veterinary Medicine in the teaching of the didactic components of ophthalmology and dermatology over four years using pre-prepared lectures developed by off-site instructors. The methodology of lecture preparation and presentation and various perspectives of student satisfaction with this teaching/learning method are presented.

Animals↗

Ophthalmological outcome following orbital resection in anterior and anterolateral skull base surgery.

OBJECT: Partial resection of the orbital bones is not uncommon during the excision of anterior and anterolateral skull base tumors. Controversy exists regarding the need for and extent of the reconstruction necessary following this resection. The authors studied this factor in a series of patients. METHODS: The authors conducted a retrospective review of 56 patients in whom resection of 57 anterior or anterolateral skull base tumors and partial excision of the orbital bone were performed. Adverse ophthalmological outcomes were noted in 16 patients, in nine of whom adverse outcomes were believed to be directly related to resection of the orbital walls. Some degree of orbital reconstruction was performed during 23 of the 57 procedures. An adverse orbit-related outcome was strongly associated with resection of the orbital floor and with resection of two thirds or more of two or more orbital walls but not with the presence of absence or orbital reconstruction. The latter finding, however, is likely a function of selection bias. CONCLUSIONS: In most patients after partial excision of the orbital bones, elaborate reconstruction is not necessary. Isolated medial and lateral orbital wall defects or combined superior and lateral orbital wall defects, especially in cases in which the periorbita is intact, probably do not require primary reconstruction. In cases of orbital floor defects, whether isolated or part of a multiple wall resection, primary reconstruction is recommended.

Craniotomy↗

The importance of controlled illumination in color vision testing in a pediatric ophthalmology clinical practice.

The AO-HRR pseudoisochromatic plates are commonly used for color vision testing in pediatric ophthalmology; however, the recommended procedure for obtaining proper illumination (a completely darkened room and standard illuminant) is typically not followed. To evaluate the role of the illuminant in clinical testing with the AO-HRR, 132 children, ages 3 to 16 years, were tested with and without the recommended illuminant (MacBeth Easel Lamp) and with the self-illuminated APT-5 Color Vision Tester. Twenty-two failed the AO-HRR with the recommended illuminant; 28 failed the AO-HRR without the illuminant. Only 13 failed the APT-5. The Cochran Q test for three related samples showed that the differences among the three groups were significant (Q = 17.1, P < .001). Diagnostic evaluation following clinical screening indicated that the differences among the tests were primarily due to false alarms, which were greatest without the recommended illuminant and least with the APT-5. These results demonstrate the importance of controlled illumination in color vision testing, either by using the recommended illumination with the AO-HRR or a self-illuminated test such as the APT-5.

Adolescent↗

Status of speciality training in ophthalmology in India.

PURPOSE: To systematically evaluate the quality of ophthalmology training in India. METHODS: Questionnaires were sent to existing medical schools and accredited training institutions. Institutions were followed up thrice to obtain responses. Data were analysed using Stata 8.0. RESULTS: Responses were received from 128 (89.5%) of the 143 institutions. Each year, 900 training slots were available across the country. Faculty: student ratios were better in accredited training institutions than in postgraduate medical schools. Fifty three (41.4%) of 128 institutions subscribed to more than 2 international journals. Fewer than 1 in 6 institutions conducted research projects. 11 (8.6%) institutions reported more than five publications in international peer-reviewed journals over three years. Only a third of the responding institutions had a wet lab. CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to improve the training facilities and optimally utilise the infrastructure available in postgraduate medical schools.

Education, Medical↗

A survey of the qualifications of ophthalmology nurses.

A study was conducted to ascertain the numbers of nurses working in ophthalmology with appropriate qualifications. A questionnaire was sent to 168 ophthalmic nurse managers in the UK which revealed that a much greater proportion of nurses employed at grades I, H, G and F hold an ophthalmic qualification compared with those employed at grades E, D and C. Those nurses working at higher grades were far fewer in number, however. The results also indicated that the smaller the unit is, the less likely it is to employ nurses holding the specialist qualification. More funding and access to courses is recommended.

Humans↗

Computers in ophthalmology practice.

Computers are already in widespread use in medical practice throughout the world and their utility and popularity is increasing day by day. While future generations of medical professionals will be computer literate with a corresponding increase in use of computers in medical practice, the current generation finds itself in a dilemma of how best to adapt to the fast-evolving world of information technology. In addition to practice management, information technology has already had a substantial impact on diagnostic medicine, especially in imaging techniques and maintenance of medical records. This information technology is now poised to make a big impact on the way we deliver medical care in India. Ophthalmology is no exception to this, but at present very few practices are either fully or partially computerized. This article provides a practical account of the uses and advantages of computers in ophthalmic practice, as well as a step-by-step approach to the optimal utilization of available computer technology.

Computers↗