Program Overview

Program Overview

The university program in question is focused on Diabetes Eye Care - Photographic Diagnostics, a 7.5 hp course. This program is designed for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of diabetes screening and independently assess and grade diabetic retinopathy.

Course Objectives

The course aims to provide participants with in-depth knowledge of diabetes complications in the eye, their onset, and potential complications. The primary objective is for participants to be able to identify, describe, and grade typical diabetes changes in the retina independently. Additionally, the course seeks to impart an understanding of diabetes as a systemic disease and what it means to live with the disease. Upon completion, participants should be able to define their role in the care chain and understand how it may evolve in the future.

Course Structure

The study pace corresponds to about 50% of full-time studies, and the course runs during the latter part of the spring semester. Participants are expected to take significant responsibility for their learning. Reading materials are made available via the Canvas learning platform. Beyond reading materials, course literature is referenced. Self-study is interspersed with lectures and time for working on assignments and self-correcting quizzes. In a seminar format, participants are presented with a multitude of retinal images and, under supervision, practice assessing and grading retinal changes. The course concludes with a written examination in a writing room.

Course Content

The course covers various types of diabetes and associated pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and care forms. Furthermore, it delves into diabetes-related changes in the eye, focusing on retinal changes and diabetic retinopathy. Classification and grading of diabetic retinopathy and their significance for management, as well as specific examination methodology, are also addressed. By integrating knowledge of patient perspectives, care perspectives, treatment forms, and the significance of different professional roles, the course in fundus diagnostics aims to provide participants with a broad and deep understanding of eye bottom diagnostics with a focus on holistic view and patient-centered care.

Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must have at least 180 hp in relevant fields, including a nursing degree or optician degree, or a medical degree with commenced specialist training in ophthalmology.

Course Details

• Course Name: Diabetes Eye Care - Photographic Diagnostics
• Credits: 7.5 hp
• Duration: Latter part of the spring semester
• Study Pace: About 50% of full-time studies
• Teaching Methods: Self-study, lectures, seminars, and written examination
• Learning Platform: Canvas

Examination

The course concludes with a written examination in a writing room, located at the Eye Center of Excellence, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Eye and Vision, Eugeniavägen 12, Solna. The schedule is updated no later than two weeks before the course starts.

Program Conclusion

This program is tailored for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their skills in diabetic retinopathy diagnosis and management, offering a comprehensive approach that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, all aimed at improving patient care.