The Moorfields diabetes survey: lessons learnt

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this talk is to describe the lessons learnt from the Moorfields Diabetes Survey and the Tower Hamlets Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Programme in order to emphasise the importance of good communication between components of screening. Methods The Moorfields Diabetes Survey highlighted that most patients in eye clinics have diabetes related complications, but little understanding of diabetes itself and its relevance to eye disease. In order to help these patients, it was essential to understand how diabetic retinopathy screening could help with the detection, the education and the referral of patients with diabetic eye disease requiring treatment. The screening episode consists of proper identification of the target population and appropriate funding for the whole service, a robust call‐recall system, a protocol driven screening episode and the timely treatment of sight threatening retinopathy. All elements must have in‐built quality assurance. Results In England, the National Screening Committe's guidelines govern the screening process. Although it provides strict quality control and reporting guidance, there is considerable freedom for the individual programs to set up the best service for their population. Tower Hamlets is one of the most deprived boroughs of the UK and as such, faced a difficult task to build a programme to such standards. To identify and keep track of the highly mobile population, deal with several religious requirements are the first challenges, followed by obtaining enough funding for the screening, the educational activities and for the treatment of retinopathy. Conclusion A well‐trained and committed workforce working in good partnership between primary care and the treatment centre has made this possible.