Income-related inequalities in visual impairment and eye screening services in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to measure income-related inequalities in visual impairment and use of eye screening services amongst Canadian living with type 2 diabetes, and to examine contribution of various socio-demographic factors to identified income-related inequalities. Methods: We used data from the Survey on Living with Chronic Disease in Canada-Diabetes Component 2011 (SLCDC-DM) to derive the relative concentration index (RCI) and decomposition of the RCI. Results: Individuals with lower income tended to have more visual impairment compared with those with higher income. The main contribution to the observed income inequality in visual impairment came from age and marital status. Regarding eye screening services, patients with higher income were more likely to use eye screening and preventive eye screening services. The main contributors to increased use were income, having private health insurance and patient's experience in discussing diabetic complications with health professionals. Conclusion: Identified contributors of income-related inequality should be considered when health and healthcare policies are developed in order to minimize and mitigate the observed inequalities.