DR. SAYANTAN GHOSH

Abstract

DR has been third most common reason for preventable blindness. Despite all the effective investigations and management, loss of vision is on the rise from DR. We undertake a ground level study to understand the real problems .Methodologies: 3 ASHAs followed up 189 diabetic patients for 9 months with at least 3 visits at home. A questionnaire and series of interventions if required have been provided for 89 patients while rest were let to use conventional route of referral.Results : A focused and structured session intervention with periodic follow up reduced the vision loss in intervention group to the extent of 5 letters or more on Snellen’s chart. Having training programs of grassroots workers change the collective perception on response scale as measured.inference:To have a training and awareness program is crucial and supplemental to all modern effective methods of DR management as rural DR patients lack the accessibility and affordability to follow up regularly.