Ophthalmology in Bangladesh Advancing Eye Care through Technology

Dr. Mohd Mizanur Rahman

Dr Mohd Mizanur Rahman

Telemedicine. The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined telemedicine as, “the delivery of healthcare services, where distance is a critical factor, by all healthcare professionals using information and communication technologies for the exchange of valid information for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and injuries, research and evaluation and for the continuing education of healthcare providers, all in the interests of advancing the health of individuals and their communities. Telemedicine allows patients in remote locations to access medical expertise quickly, efficiently and without travel and thereby offers a reduced-cost solution to delivering remote care when and where it is needed.

Telehealth The delivery and facilitation of health and health-related services including medical care, provider and patient education, health information services and self-care via telecommunications and digital communication technologies. It is also termed eHealth and m-health. Telemedicine is sometimes used as a synonym for telehealth. Although WHO uses telemedicine to describe all aspects of health care including preventive care, many organizations use the term telemedicine only to describe remote clinical services and’ telehealth’ to include non-clinical applications like administration and provider education and

health information for the common people.

In recent years, Bangladesh has seen a remarkable transformation in its  healthcare landscape, with tele-optometry emerging as a pivotal innovation in the realm of eye care. This advancement leverages digital technology to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, offering an advanced level of service that is both accessible and efficient.

Telemedicine is an emerging field in recent medical achievements with rapid development. 

The “smartphone” availability has increased in both developed and developing countries even among people in rural and remote areas. Tele-based services can be used for screening ophthalmic diseases and also monitoring patients with known diseases. Electronic ophthalmologic records of the patients including captured images by smartphones from anterior and posterior segments of the eye will be evaluated by ophthalmologists, and if patients require further evaluations, they will be referred to experts in the relevant field. Eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy,

and retinopathy of prematurity are the most common causes of blindness in many countries and beneficial use of teleophthalmology with smartphones will be a good way to achieve the aim of VISION 2020 all over the world. Numerous studies have shown that teleophthalmology is similar to the conventional eye care system in clinical outcomes and even provides more patient satisfaction as it saves time and cost. This review explains how teleophthalmology helps to improve patient outcomes through smartphones.

Tele-optometry utilizes video conferencing, digital imaging, and remote diagnostics to provide comprehensive eye examinations and consultations. This is particularly beneficial in Bangladesh, where rural and remote areas often face a shortage of specialized healthcare services. By enabling patients to consult with ophthalmologists and optometrists without the need to travel long distances, tele-optometry is making high-quality eye care more accessible to underserved populations.

Bangladesh is witnessing a significant evolution in ophthalmology, driven by technological advancements that are elevating the standard of eye care services. This transformation is particularly evident in the adoption of tele-optometry and other digital health solutions, which are revolutionizing how eye care is delivered across the country.

The advent of tele-optometry has brought about a paradigm shift in the accessibility and efficiency of eye care services. Utilizing digital platforms for remote consultations, diagnostic imaging, and patient management, tele-optometry is bridging the gap between patients and specialists, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This innovation ensures that individuals in remote regions can receive expert eye care without the need for extensive travel, addressing a critical gap in Bangladesh’s healthcare system.

In urban centres, advanced ophthalmology practices are integrating cutting-edge technologies such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), laser treatments, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. These advancements are enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and the effectiveness of treatments for a wide range of eye conditions, from refractive errors to complex retinal diseases.

A notable development in the field is the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in ophthalmology. AI-powered diagnostic tools are capable of analyzing retinal images with high precision, aiding in the early detection of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. These technologies are not only improving diagnostic accuracy but also enabling personalized treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of each patient.

Moreover, teleophthalmology services are playing a crucial role in postoperative care and chronic disease management. Patients who undergo eye surgeries or require ongoing monitoring for conditions like glaucoma can benefit from regular remote check-ins, reducing the frequency of hospital visits and ensuring continuous care. This approach is particularly beneficial in a country where healthcare facilities are often overwhelmed with patient loads.

Educational initiatives are also at the forefront of this technological revolution. Medical institutions in Bangladesh are incorporating virtual reality (VR) and simulation-based training for ophthalmology students and professionals. These immersive learning tools provide hands-on experience in a controlled environment, enhancing the skills and confidence of future eye care providers.

While the advancements in ophthalmology are promising, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to these technologies. Addressing issues such as affordability, digital literacy, and infrastructure development is essential to ensure that the benefits of advanced eye care reach all segments of the population.

In conclusion, the field of ophthalmology in Bangladesh is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological innovations that are enhancing the quality and accessibility of eye care services. From tele-optometry to AI-powered diagnostics and advanced surgical techniques, these advancements are setting new standards in eye health. As Bangladesh continues to invest in digital health infrastructure and embrace new technologies, the future of ophthalmology holds great promise for improving the vision and overall well-being of its people.

(The writer is an Assistant Professor and Research Fellow, Management & Science University, Malaysia.)