Consultas oftalmológicas en internet

Abstract

Purpose/Methods: This paper summarises the testing of the ophthalmological consultations via the spanish web Oftalnet carried out during a period of 18 months. Consultations, which are free of charge, are received by the Medical Coordinator who submits them to the group of experts that consitute the Scientific Commitee of the web Oftalnet and that are divided into 6 sections: 1)Strabology and Neuroophthalmology; 2) Orbit, eyelids and appendages; 3) Anterior Chamber (cornea, conjunctiva, lens and glaucoma); 4) Posterior Chamber (vitreous and retina); 5) Refractive Surgery and 6)Miscellany. Results/Conclusions: The 71 consultations attended during this period are grouped into: 1) Informative (75%); 2) Diagnostic (13%), 3) Trascendental (5%) and 4) Complementary request (7%). The average number of consultations attended is of 5.5 per month. The designed organisational and working program has proved itself to be efficient and gratifiying both for the users as well as for the Scientifica Committee. The obtained results confirm in the presents era of Informatics this way of online medical service should be accepted and regulated in order to offer an accurate and responsible advice to the patient.