Collaborative telemedicine between optometry and ophthalmology: An initiative from the University of Houston

The University of Houston College of Optometry (UHCO) has developed a stron g Telemedicine Optometry/Ophthalmology program. Patient care, clinical teac hing and research benefit from utilizing Telemedicine technology. This init iative between Optometry and Ophthalmology is at the forefront of eyecare! Presented here: clinical teaching opportunities via tele-education includin g retinal, uveitic, neuro-ophthalmic disorders and glaucoma. Seminars intro duce students to this technology and enhance their clinical experience thro ugh exposure to eye pathologies often related to systemic diseases. UHCO's affiliated clinics include multidisciplinary centers staffed by optometrist s: the Frost Eye Clinic (HIV multidisciplinary care), Good Neighbor Health Clinic and Rusk School Health Promotion Project (indigent multidisciplinary care). These centers can converse on line with eyecare professionals. Larg e sites interested in low vision/visual rehabilitation include: The Institu te for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR), the Social Security Hospital (Li ma, Peru), the Matagorda General Hospital and the Quentin Mease Hospital. T hese sites, do offer quality care but require visual rehabilitation program s provided by UHCO. These sites also provide exposure to pathology for the students. A residency program trains optometrists in Telemedicine. The rese arch program focuses on optics and imaging necessary to diagnose glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and neuro-ophthalmic disorders through Telemedicine. UHCO supports the advancement of standards in tele-eyecare.