Lay summary
The proposed research aims to gather evidence for establishing a teleophthalmology facility in New Zealand; exploring the feasibility of such a teleophthalmology facility in addressing the acute eye care needs of patients.
We plan to conduct an extensive literature review (following PRISMA guidelines), subsequently publishing a systematic review in peer-reviewed ophthalmology journals, about the current teleophthalmology practices, challenges, and the real-world implementations across the globe, especially in Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand. We will also study the regulations and standards that are required to set up a similar facility in New Zealand. Lastly, the activation grant would also allow us to establish a professional relationship with local partners for the implementation of a pilot teleophthalmology system designed to improve access to eye care in New Zealand.