Teleophthalmology and teleoptometry: Health care strategies in constant development

Abstract

<em><strong>Objective</strong><em> To conduct a literature review on developments and experiences in the fields of teleophthalmology and teleoptometry. <em><strong>Methodology</strong><em> This documentary research uses secondary data sources through a search in databases such as Hinari, ScienceDirect, Medline, Pubmed, and, in particular, indexed journals such as the <em><strong>American Journal of Public Health and the <em>Cuban Journal of Ophthalmology</em>. <em><strong>Results</strong><em> There has been progress in research, development and implementation of services, especially in teleophthalmology and, to a lesser extent, in teleoptometry. Nevertheless, all studies were developed as pilot studies, and none of them has been received as a care model by the health system of any nation or institution. This, perhaps, is due to cultural factors in both health professionals and patients to economic factors, given the limited research on the cost-effectiveness of implementing this service, and to the limited access to information and communication technologies in regions inhabited by vulnerable populations. <em><strong>Conclusions</strong><em> Despite these limitations, teleophthalmology and teleoptometry contribute to health care and to reducing adverse outcomes they are tools for the interdisciplinary work of professionals worldwide.