Improving eye care access in rural areas using telemedicine
I-TRUST: Implementation of Teleophthalmology in Rural Health Systems Study
This study is looking to improve eye care for people with diabetes living in rural areas by using telemedicine, making it easier for them to get screened for diabetic eye problems and helping to prevent serious vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175006 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing diabetic retinopathy screening rates in rural communities through the implementation of teleophthalmology. It aims to address the barriers that prevent effective use of telemedicine in primary care clinics by integrating a tailored program called I-SITE. The study will involve a multi-center randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of this program, identify factors influencing teleophthalmology usage, and assess the costs associated with its implementation. Patients will benefit from increased access to eye care services, 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 are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those living in urban areas may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of blindness in patients with diabetes by improving access to timely eye screenings.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that telemedicine can effectively increase screening rates for various health conditions, indicating a promising approach for diabetic retinopathy as well.
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.