This activity for Diabetic Retinopathy education is provided by Med Learning Group.
This activity is supported by an independent medical education grant from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
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Collaboration With The Multidisciplinary Team
Multidisciplinary collaboration to manage patients with diabetes has been shown to reduce Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) by at least 0.5%.1 The team approach has also been shown to improve both patient satisfaction and quality of life as well as lower the risk of complications from diabetes.2 For instance, effective blood sugar management has been shown to reduce systemic complications by 53% to 63%.3,4
Each of the eye care providers on the diabetic care team have an important role. Optometrists and general ophthalmologists are both adept providers for dilated eye examinations. They will diagnose diabetic retinopathy (DR) and determine if referral for treatment is necessary. Optometrists and most ophthalmologists will refer patients who need treatment to a retinal specialist.6
Unfortunately, some patients with DR will lose substantial vision despite treatment. Patients who have lost substantial vision or have trouble with activities of daily living can be referred to a low vision specialist. These specialists can help patients learn to use their remaining vision to the fullest potential through utilizing low vision devices such as telescopes, magnifiers, and independent living aids.7
References
- Shojania KG, Ranji SR, McDonald KM, et al. Effects of quality improvement strategies for type 2 diabetes on glycemic control: a meta-regression analysis. JAMA. 2006;296(40):427-440.
- National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP). Redesigning the health care team: Diabetes prevention and lifelong management. Updated February 2013. https://ambiohealth.com/uploads/Redesigning the Health Care Team.pdf
- Gaede P, Vedel P, Parving HH, Pedersen O. Intensified multifactorial intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and microalbuminuria: The Steno type 2 randomised study. Lancet. 1999;353:617-622.
- Macisaac RJ, Jerums G. Intensive glucose control and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes. Heart Lung Circ. 2011;20:647-654.
- American Diabetes Association. Get to Know your Diabetes Care Team. https://diabetes.org/healthy-living/medication-treatments/your-health-care-team
- McKinney S. Debating Anti-VEGF Injections. Rev Ophthalmol. September 9, 2020. https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/debating-antivegf-injections
- Flaxel CJ, Adelman RA, Bailey ST, et al. Diabetic Retinopathy Preferred Practice Pattern®. Ophthalmology. 2020;127(1):P66-P145.
All URL’s accessed 4/21/22.
