This allows us to capture and store images of eyes to screen for any anomalies and to follow the course of current eye disease by comparison with previous images. Subtle changes can more accurately be assessed by comparing retinal scans ride by ride.



2. Digital Photography in Detail

Digital imaging is far superior to traditional methods of photographic capture. The initial camera systems utilised polaroid technology which although gave an instant photograph it was messy and expensive and required an area for paper storage. Retrieval of photographs required cumbersome hand recorded book catalogues that was often very time consuming due to lack of care in filing. 35mm gave a better quality photograph but was usually kept in slide format and like polaroid had the same inherent filing problems and required a projector to view. Digital imaging has instant results, is filed on computer in a patient folder (often linked to the main record), can be viewed side by side with previous photos and takes up no extra space than the computer and creates no wastage. We have a current recall system in place to regularly review diabetic patients which allows us to update their GP with the latest on any changes in their retinal status.

3. System participants

The system participants involved in digital photography are the Optometrist and the patient.

4. Information tasks performed in the past

In the past the Optometrist would view the eye during an examination and record observations. So digital photography has improved this as now the picture is taken, saved onto the computer and is used to compare images of the eye.