Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) has launched Eye Connect, a comprehensive support service for people living with macular disease and described as the first of its kind in Australia.
Of the estimated 1.9 million Australians affected by the disease, studies have shown only 56% of patients recall receiving a clear diagnosis, including the name of their condition.
Additionally, 58% of patients were unable to recall receiving any lifestyle modification advice from their eyecare professional.
MDFA responded with Eye Connect, which enables people to access free, evidence-based support in between appointments with their eyecare professional.
Eye Connect is currently available to people living with any stage of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
It has been developed based on insights from a neovascular AMD pilot program and research involving people living with macular disease, carers, ophthalmologists and optometrists. The peak body said the service will be expanded to support other macular conditions as well.
MDFA has released a video to provide eyecare professionals with an understanding of how the peak body can support their patients after they leave the clinic.
Eye Connect offers a range of tailored support in three key areas:
- Health information: patients are provided with evidence-based information about macular disease, and non-clinical support services to help them confidently manage their condition.
- Practical advice: this includes tips and guidance on things like nutrition for healthy eyes, immediate care after their appointments, daily living with reduced or low vision, and transport advice.
- Emotional support: For some, a diagnosis of macular disease – or living with an eye condition – can be difficult. The Eye Connect team can help patients manage some of their concerns about diagnosis and treatment. Eye Connect can also connect patients to peer support, including trained volunteers and other people also living with macular disease.
MDFA CEO Dr Kathy Chapman, said: “We know that people with macular disease want to connect with more practical and emotional support to help them manage their condition when they’re at home.
“Supporting eyecare professionals to deliver better health outcomes for patients with macular disease is a key priority for Macular Disease Foundation Australia. We have every confidence that Eye Connect will help drive this forward by complementing the information people receive in a clinical setting.”
With figures showing between 300,000 and 400,000 Australians affected by diabetic retinopathy, MDFA said supporting people with diabetic eye disease will be a major focus in the expansion of the Eye Connect service.
“The Eye Connect service will provide a valuable supplement to the information that clinicians give their patients with macular disease,” said Associate Professor Alex Hunyor, MDFA Medical Committee chair.
“Offering support that is tailored to the individual patient is a really practical addition to the services already provided by the Foundation.”
Health professionals can refer patients to the new Eye Connect service by visiting https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/health-professional/refer-to-eyeconnect/, via Oculo or by calling Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709. Patients can also self-refer via the foundation’s website or over the phone.
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