DR.IVA RANI KALITA

DR. HARSH VARDHAN SINGH, DR. VEENA KANNVSAMY, DR.FREDRICK MOUTTAPA

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the current referral pattern to Paediatric Ophthalmology OPD of tertiary eye hospital & identify the discrepancy of referral. Patients aged 0-16yr were included & retrospective data were from uploaded referral letters in the EMR(June2019-Dec2019). Referring clinicians were noted & the letter was assessed for quality, accuracy,& timely referral. Results: Of 77 referrals, 6 didn’t have any diagnosis. So, 71 were included. The referring clinicians were Ophthalmologists (Oph), pediatricians, General practitioners (GPs), & Others. Most were referred by Ophthalmologists (76%) but visual acuity was noted only for 30% of these patients. Half of them were accurate. Pediatrician referrals were more detailed. Conclusion: There is a need for standardized referral format & basic training for primary care providers on some simple tests (Lights reflex tests) for identifying the red flags in Paediatric eye examination and thus enhancing the quality & timely referral