Katibeh M, Kalantarion M, Sabbaghi H, Mousavi B, Schriver M, Nikkhah H, Ahmadieh H, Kallestrup P. Designing a Screening Program for Prevention of Avoidable Blindness in Iran through a Participatory Action Approach.
J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2019;
14:52-61. [PMID:
30820288 PMCID:
PMC6388524 DOI:
10.4103/jovr.jovr_43_18]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose
To design a screening program for prevention of blindness at the community level in Iran.
Methods
In this qualitative study, the components and properties of the screening program were identified using a participatory action research method with focus group meetings (FGMs) with relevant health care providers and authorities. A content analysis approach was used for data analysis.
Results
In total, 18 stakeholders including six ophthalmologists with different sub-specialties participated in the five FGMs. The screening program aims to discover vision-threatening eye conditions in people aged 50 years and over. Primary health care workers deliver the program including vision tests and fundus imaging with the support of an ophthalmic technician. Retina specialists perform decision-making. Referral plans are interacted through an automated digital program. The screening environment, feedback, ethics and medical legal issues are other main components of the program.
Conclusion
This study presents the initial concepts and components of a screening program for prevention of blindness in the adult population in Iran. The program has the potential to improve eye health at the community level and may potentially be replicated as a model for similar settings elsewhere.
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