The Northwest Tribal Vision Telemedicine project is a research study to determine the efficacy of non-mydriatic cameras as a diagnostic tool to detect diabetic eye diseases. This study will compare disease progression in groups of diabetic patients using traditional detection methods for diabetic retinopathy against those using non-mydriatic camera photography.

Non-mydriatic cameras offer many benefits over traditional methods of detection:

• Dilation is not usually required, making the process more convenient and comfortable for the patiant.



• Non-mydriatic camera images are displayed immediately, allowing trained technicians to offer immediate recommendations for further eye care, and to educate patients about the risks of diabetic eye disease.



• Images from non-mydriatic camera photography can be read off-site, thereby increasing access to care for diabetic patients in remote locations.

The use of non-mydriatic cameras has the potential to improve care and treatment of diabetic retinopathy. It may increase the number of diabetic patients that have yearly eye exams and reduce the chance of diabetic retinopathy blindness.