A study for evaluation of gap between paediatricians and ophthalmologists for retinopathy of prematurity management in western India.

Abstract

Background: To study gap between paediatricians and ophthalmologists for management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and apply it in better policy makings to prevent irreversible vision loss in the affected preterm babies. Material & Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study,100 paediatricians of western India  were asked about educational  and  practicing  profile, knowledge regarding ROP screening  guidelines,  risk  factors and potential outcomes,  referral  facilities available in their localities  and  barriers  for  referral. Chi-square  test  was  used and  a  P  value  of  <0.05  was considered  as  statistically  significant. Results: All (100%) knew about risk factors  for development of ROP. Awareness regarding timing of screening was found in 82% urban and40% rural practitioners. 74% urban practitioners knew about treatment modalities but only 50% rural paediatricians were aware about this. Only 14% urban practitioners were facing problem in referral in contrast to 60% rural practitioners. Majority (70%) said unavailability of a trained ophthalmologist was the barrier in the referral. Conclusion:  Majority  of  paediatricians  in  western  zone  of  India  were  aware  of  risk factors but had  less  information  about  ROP  screening timings  and  treatment  modalities.  This  suggests  need  for  creating  awareness  and  close  coordination  between  paediatricians  and  ophthalmologists especially in rural localities. [Prajapati V Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(6):7-10]