Exploring the efficacy of teleophthalmology in remote areas improving access to eye care and reducing the burden of preventable blindness
1Dr Sadia Khalid, 2Dr Lutifullah Shaikh,3Dr Muhammad Tariq Bangash, 4Qamar Abbas, 5Isma Abbas, 6Mansoor Musa
Submission: 18 January 2026 | Acceptance: 19 February 2026 | Publication: 25 March 2026
1Consultant ophthalmologist eye department, Allied hospital Faisalabad
2Sindh govt hospital Saudabad Malir Karachi
3Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Islam Medical College, Sialkot
4PIMS Islamabad
5PIMS Islamabad
6UHS Lahore
ABSTRACT:
Background: Access to quality eye care remains a significant challenge in remote and underserved regions, often resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment of preventable ocular conditions. Teleophthalmology, a branch of telemedicine, offers a promising solution to bridge this gap by facilitating remote consultations and timely interventions.
Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the efficacy of teleophthalmology in enhancing access to eye care services and reducing the burden of preventable blindness in remote areas.
Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at Services Hospital, Lahore, over a period of 12 months from May 2024 to April 2025. A total of 90 participants from remote areas with limited access to ophthalmic care were enrolled. Data were collected through teleophthalmology consultations facilitated by trained healthcare workers, with follow-ups and outcomes recorded to assess improvements in access, diagnosis, treatment, and patient satisfaction.
Results: Teleophthalmology significantly improved access to eye care among the study population. Out of the 90 participants, 68 (75.6%) received timely diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and refractive errors. Preventable causes of visual impairment were effectively identified and managed in 72 (80%) cases. Patient satisfaction with teleconsultations was high, with 81 (90%) reporting convenience and improved health-seeking behavior. The referral rate to tertiary care for advanced cases was reduced by 40% compared to traditional outreach methods.
Conclusion: Teleophthalmology proved to be an effective tool in improving access to eye care and significantly reducing the burden of preventable blindness in remote areas. Its implementation can serve as a sustainable and scalable strategy to address disparities in ophthalmic healthcare delivery.
Keywords: Teleophthalmology, Preventable Blindness, Remote Healthcare, Eye Care Access, Telemedicine, Vision Screening, Public Health Intervention.