Improving transportation access for patients with diabetic retinopathy

Using implementation science to adapt a targeted transportation intervention for patients with diabetic retinopathy (PRONTO-EYE)

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11010017

This study is working to make it easier for people with diabetic retinopathy to get to their eye doctor appointments by improving a ride-share program, so they can keep their vision healthy and avoid preventable blindness.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11010017 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on addressing transportation challenges faced by patients with diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. The project aims to adapt an existing ride-share program to help patients attend their ophthalmology appointments more consistently. By using implementation science and human-centered design, the team will co-design and pilot test this transportation intervention, known as PRONTO-EYE, specifically for patients with Medicaid insurance. The goal is to enhance appointment adherence and ultimately reduce preventable blindness in underserved communities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with diabetic retinopathy who have Medicaid insurance and face transportation barriers to accessing ophthalmology care.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetic retinopathy or those who do not face transportation challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to eye care for patients with diabetic retinopathy, leading to better health outcomes and reduced vision loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using transportation interventions to improve healthcare access, making this approach promising for addressing similar challenges.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.