Digital ophthalmoscopy: through a non-specialist lens

Abstract

ABSTRACT The ophthalmoscope has been a mainstay for non-specialist physicians to review a range of disorders affecting patient fundi. Its design has remained unchanged since its inception and while relatively easy to operate, gaining mastery of it can prove challenging. Training is limited by its single-user interface with the lack of attachments to augment its design and therefore facilitate skill acquisition. Documentation is variable depending on the competence of the individual to satisfactorily see enough of the fundi, and the accuracy with which they can describe their findings. Several groups have looked to find adaptions to smartphones in order to develop user-friendly and affordable alternative to the traditional ophthalmoscope. A digital solution has the potential to provide greater versatility by enhancing documentation, improved training pathways and facilitating more efficient care, with options for geographically disparate healthcare settings to access teleophthalmology input.