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Medical Research Update: Comparing Diagnosis of Glaucoma by Telemedicine or In-Person

A recently released study, published in the Journal of Glaucoma, sought to compare how similar the diagnosis of glaucoma would be when conducted by an in-person ophthalmologist or optometrist or via “a simulated telemedicine program.” The results reported indicated “moderate agreement” among the three modalities, “providing evidence that telemedicine is a timely, accurate screening method in settings where an in-person visit may not be feasible.” Patients included individuals with normal optic nerve imaging as well as those referred for glaucoma evaluation.  The findings, indicating similar results for each form of diagnosis, show promise in helping to increase access to care, “particularly in rural or underserved” areas. Read more in the Journal of Glaucoma abstract on the Comparison of Glaucoma Diagnosis by  Telemedicine, In-Person Ophthalmologist, and Optometrist.