Task sharing in the eye care workforce: Screening, detection, and management of diabetic retinopathy in Pakistan. A case study

Abstract

Purpose: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a preventable cause of vision loss. Reducing vision loss due to DR and providing access to eye care services for people with diabetes have been severely constrained by a shortage in the number of ophthalmologists. This study aimed to explore the potential for task sharing in the eye care workforce for screening, detection, and management of DR. Methods: Using purposive sampling, 24 participants were recruited from four selected hospitals in 2 provinces in Pakistan. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to explore the potential for task sharing in DR management. Results: Amongst 24 participants recruited, 22 (91.7%) including administrators (n = 3), opht..