Mobile retinal photography: A means of screening for diabetic retinopathy in Aboriginal communities

Abstract

Background: Mobile fundus photography undertaken by Aboriginal health workers has been suggested as a practical and effective method of screening for diabetic retinopathy among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Methods: A pilot study was undertaken to demonstrate that interpretable colour slides of the retina could be produced by Aboriginal health workers trained over a two-week period. Results: Of 47 subjects, 36 (76.6%) had interpretable retinal photographs. Conclusions: These findings warrant further evaluation as to the benefits and cost effectiveness of mobile retinal photography.