Posters

The safety and efficacy of a tele-clinic in ophthalmic emergencies

Poster Details

First Author: O.Giasin UK

Co Author(s):    O. Fydanaki   K. Vahdani   D. Mikropoulos   M. Muhtaseb           

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To assess the safety and efficacy of a proposed distant virtual emergency eye clinic (Tele-clinic) and to suggest criteria for case suitability and propose guidelines for minimum requirements to conduct Tele-clinic safely.

Setting:

Aneurin Bhevan University Health board, Royal Gwent Hospital

Methods:

Retrospective case notes and patients investigations review of 49 selected cases who attended the emergency eye clinic service from 1/11/2017- 20/2/2018 and had at their presentation at least one photographic or other ophthalmic investigation. The history and investigations were reviewed and assessed by a second ophthalmologist who had not been involved at any stage at the patients’ actual management. The management outcome of both, the real clinic and the presumed virtual clinic, were compared by a third ophthalmologist.

Results:

Out of 100 case series reviewed, 49 cases had met the entry criteria. Out of the 49 cases, 40 cases (82%) had similar management outcome in the presumed virtual clinic and the real clinic. Of the 9 remaining cases, 4 required further imaging and only 5 cases needed to be seen in a real clinic for assessment and management.

Conclusions:

Virtual clinics in various ophthalmic specialties have been proved to be safe and cost effective to both patients and health care providers. This study provides evidence that it is safe and cost effective to conduct a Tele-clinic for ophthalmic emergency presentations when specific criteria and minimum requirements are met.

Financial Disclosure:

None