Author/Authors :
Katibeh, Marzieh Department of Public Health - Aarhus University - Aarhus, Denmark , Kalantarion, Masomeh Department of Medical Education - School of Management and Medical Education - Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Sabbaghi, Hamideh Shahid Behesthi University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Mousavi, Batool Department of eHealth - Asre Danesh Afzar, Tehran , Schriver, Michael Department of Public Health - Aarhus University - Aarhus, Denmark , Nikkhah, Homayoun Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Ahmadieh, Hamid Shahid Behesthi University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Kallestrup, Per Department of Public Health - Aarhus University - Aarhus, Denmark
Abstract :
Purpose: To design a screening program for prevention of blindness at the community level in Iran.
Methods: In this qualitative study, the components and properties of the screening program were identified
using a participatory action research method with focus group meetings (FGMs) with relevant health care
providers and authorities. A content analysis approach was used for data analysis.
Results: In total, 18 stakeholders including six ophthalmologists with different sub‑specialties participated
in the five FGMs. The screening program aims to discover vision‑threatening eye conditions in people aged
50 years and over. Primary health care workers deliver the program including vision tests and fundus
imaging with the support of an ophthalmic technician. Retina specialists perform decision‑making. Referral
plans are interacted through an automated digital program. The screening environment, feedback, ethics
and medical legal issues are other main components of the program.
Conclusion: This study presents the initial concepts and components of a screening program for prevention
of blindness in the adult population in Iran. The program has the potential to improve eye health at the
community level and may potentially be replicated as a model for similar settings elsewhere.
Keywords :
Blindness , Prevention and Control , Qualitative Research , Vision Screening