Impact of Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Camps and Workshops on Patients and Health Care Personnel

Abstract

BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to know the level of awareness among patients, general physicians, para-ophthalmic personnel and ophthalmologists regarding diabetic retinopathy in tribal dominated state of Jharkhand, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS Screening camps and workshops with patients, general physicians, para-ophthalmic personnel and ophthalmologists were conducted in Ramgarh district of Jharkhand. Patients were counselled about complexities of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetics were counselled about importance of yearly examination of fundus. Leaflets containing information about diabetic retinopathy were distributed in workshops. Para-ophthalmic personnel and general physicians were trained in using direct ophthalmoscope to screen cases and prompt referral to higher centres. Ophthalmologists were updated in proper diagnosis and management of diabetic retinopathy. The patients, general physicians, para-ophthalmic personnel and ophthalmologists were also asked to respond to 3-point questionnaires. RESULTS A total of 110 diabetics, 4 general physicians, 12 para-ophthalmic personnel and 5 ophthalmologists participated in the 1 st camp whereas there were 123 diabetics, 2 general physicians, 12 para-ophthalmic personnel and 3 ophthalmologists in the 2 nd camp. The patients in the 2 nd camp performed much better as compared to the 1 st camp. The performance of para-ophthalmic personnel was slightly better in the 2 nd camp in comparison to the 1 st camp. The response of the general physicians and ophthalmologists were almost similar in both the camps. CONCLUSION At the end of 1 year, a perceptible change in knowledge, attitude and awareness was felt among patients, general physicians, paraophthalmic personnel and ophthalmologists.