Improving eye care access in rural areas using telemedicine
I-TRUST: Implementation of Teleophthalmology in Rural Health Systems Study
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10927333
This study is looking at how using telehealth for eye exams can help more people in rural areas get screened for diabetic eye problems, making it easier for them to take care of their vision and avoid serious issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10927333 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how teleophthalmology can enhance diabetic retinopathy screening rates in rural communities, where access to eye care is often limited. By implementing a tailored program called I-SITE, the study aims to integrate teleophthalmology into the workflows of rural primary care clinics. The approach includes a multi-center randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of this program, identify factors influencing its success, and evaluate the costs associated with its implementation. Patients will benefit from increased access to necessary eye screenings, potentially preventing severe vision loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults living in rural areas who have diabetes and are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or live in urban areas may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of blindness in rural patients with diabetes by improving access to timely eye screenings.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that telemedicine can effectively improve access to care, suggesting that this approach may also succeed in enhancing diabetic retinopathy screening rates.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIU, YAO — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: LIU, YAO
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.