Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To digitize a local well proved health–care model for screening, diagnostic evaluation and post–treatment follow–up for diabetic retinopathy and to make it useful for tele–health. Screening, timely treatment and post–laser follow–up in combination with accurate and adequate information to the patient and patients health care provider still remains a challenge. Digitalisation may be needed to assure quality and to increase efficiency. Methods: A local health–care programme including logistics, recording sheets and diagnose–related in–formation to patients was analyzed by IDEFO (Integration Definition for Function Modelling) and UML (Unified Modelling Language). COM (Component Object Model) was used to integrate digital images and recording sheets. Images from three digital cameras were stored clustered on a central server. Net capacity is 1000 MB/min. Results: A system with integrated and diagnose–related image–recording sheets with build–in logistics for escalating morbidity. It further provides automatic prints related to a given situation. Retinal images with reading results, past history and further planning are presented on the screen and are available on–line in three different hospitals. Assurance of quality is accomplished. Effi–ciency has been improved and cost reduction of employees obtained. Conclusions: Retinet.SU – a digitized, optimized tele–health–care programme for diabetic retinopathy provides us with assurance of quality and cost reduction of employees.
Keywords: diabetic retinopathy • imaging/image analysis: clinical