Access and Analysis of Provincial Administrative Data for Cohort Disclosure to Guide Community-Based Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

#Background 

It is recommended that individuals living with diabetes have their eyes examined for signs of retinopathy annually. Even with access to eye care resources across Canada, including tele-ophthalmology, many individuals with diabetes remain unscreened with screening rates lowest in vulnerable populations. A population-based approach to identify, engage, and provide screening is needed. 

Increasing Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Rates Utilizing Provincial Healthcare Administrative Data

#Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in working age Canadians. Despite all eye care resources, including tele-ophthalmology, DR screening rates remain low; 35% of individuals with diabetes are unscreened for DR. New strategies are required to identify, engage and provide ongoing monitoring to those requiring DR screening.

Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Supported by Provincial Healthcare Administrative Data

#Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a public health issue, potentially impacting the lives of 3 million or more Canadians (7.9% of the population). If DR is detected early, vision loss can be averted. It is currently impossible to systematically identify individuals living with diabetes who have not had an annual eye examination using only primary care electronic medical records. A different approach is required.