Abstract
Purpose :
Due to curricula changes at medical school level in the UK, clinical ophthalmic care has adversely been affected, with in some instances devastating life changing consequences. Graduates feel that they do not possess the understanding, confidence, skill, and knowledge to identify and manage common ocular problems. This presents a threat to patient safety. Through the design and implementation of a mobile phone application (app) this quality improvement project (QIP) aimed to improve the transition into clinical medicine from an ophthalmology point of view by helping to improve skills and increase core knowledge of common ophthalmic cases.
Methods :
Between 2018 & 2020, four QIP cycles were undertaken. Initially via a pre intervention questionnaire (Likert scale) the views of junior doctors (n=52) were gauged pertaining to various clinical scenarios including their knowledge and confidence base when assessing acute red eyes, sudden loss of vision and double vision. We wanted to understand if they felt prepared to deal with eye problems on-call and whether an app would be helpful? If so what type of content would be useful to them? The app was developed and updated based on feedback including the use of focus groups. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ undergrad and junior doctor curriculum was used as a reference to keep the content relevant. After a pilot the app was later launched on to the app store.
Results :
Pre intervention, consistently for all questions asked, >80% of doctors rated themselves as 'poor' or 'fair' with respect to i.e. a) knowledge and understanding of eye pathology, b) preparedness at dealing with eye problems on-call, and c) their ability at assessing patients with i.e. red eyes, sudden loss of vision, and flashing and floaters. The need for such an app was evident. A post intervention analysis was performed which revealed improvements and statistically significant differences (p=<0.05) across 6 out of 7 areas compared. After the pilot & focus group sessions changes to the app included adding a skills section (figure 1) and clearly defining management plans (figure 2).
Conclusions :
This app, designed for non-ophthalmology doctors and students, has helped to improve knowledge/understanding/confidence of eye pathology and the ability to assess a variety of common eye complaints. In version 2.0 video skill tutorials and visual acuity measuring tools will be incorporated.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.