Toward Better Health Outcomes in Rural and Under-served Areas: L. V. Prasad Eye Institute's Diagonal Model of Glaucoma Care.

Purpose: L. V. Prasad Eye Institute has adopted horizontal approach of eye care delivery for the past 22 years at one of its rural secondary centers. The recent implementation of a diagonal model for enhancing glaucoma care at this center and its outcomes are reported. Methods: This was a retrospective case-control study. We included newly and consecutively diagnosed adult glaucoma patients. A comprehensive ophthalmologist provided glaucoma care. During the study period, an experienced glaucoma specialist supported the care for 2 days every month in a structured format that consisted of triaging glaucoma patients for defined protocols of therapy along with hands-on and remote online guidance to the comprehensive ophthalmologist. The data from the worst or single eye were analyzed. Results: We have included 231 patients (151 study and 80 historical controls). Sixty (75%) control patients were managed at the study center and 20 (25%) were referred. The comprehensive ophthalmologist managed 70 (48.2%) study patients and co-managed 75 (51.7%) with the glaucoma specialist. The latter changed the diagnosis in 15 eyes and altered the treatment plan in 44 eyes. Six were excluded. Successful outcome was achieved in 52 (65%) eyes in the control group and 120 (84.5%) eyes in the study group (P <.01). Additionally, study group did better in terms of case detection rate, compliance to treatment and saving on expenses for patients. Conclusion: The new model has shown better clinical outcomes of glaucoma care in an under-served geographic area. The model has the potential for wider applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]