VG expands eye health care and trains professionals

The training was carried out at the Basic Health Unit (UBS) Margarida Tavares Pereira, in the Manaíra neighborhood, at the end of this week, and brought together doctors, nurses and nursing technicians, who received theoretical and practical guidance on how the equipment works, preparing the patient, carrying out the exam and forwarding the images for specialized analysis.

Nurse Elaine Araújo, who participated in the training, highlighted the importance of the initiative to strengthen the assistance provided in Primary Care.

"It was very good for the team and the health unit. This equipment will bring many benefits to the population we serve, especially the elderly and diabetic patients. Furthermore, it will contribute to the early tracking of vision problems, allowing changes to be identified before they evolve into more serious cases", he highlighted.

What is retinography?

Retinography is a simple, quick and painless examination that records images of the back of the eye, allowing the retina, optic nerve and blood vessels to be evaluated. The procedure is mainly indicated for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, retinal diseases and other conditions that can compromise vision.

In many cases, the examination allows for the early identification of ocular changes, increasing the chances of treatment and avoiding complications, including loss of vision.

According to the coordinator responsible for implementing the service, Patrícia Pretel, the big difference is that the patient will be able to carry out the exam in the health unit itself, without having to travel to other services and at no cost.

“The exam reduces service time by eliminating the need for referral to another unit,” he explained.

After performing the retinography, the images will be sent via the Telehealth platform to specialist doctors accredited by the Ministry of Health. The professionals will analyze the records and issue the report, which will be returned to the health unit team, speeding up the diagnosis and defining clinical management.

In addition to expanding access to exams, the strategy will help reduce pent-up demand for ophthalmological consultations and evaluations, offering faster service and greater resolution to the municipal health network.

How will it work?

While new equipment is acquired by the City Hall, the retinal camera will rotate between health units, remaining around 15 days in each location, according to the schedule drawn up by the responsible technical team. The measure will allow a greater number of patients to benefit until the entire network is equipped.

For the municipal secretary of Health, Valéria Nogueira, the initiative reinforces the management's commitment to the modernization of services, disease prevention and comprehensive care for the population.

“We are bringing technology closer to people, ensuring early diagnosis, faster care and better quality of care provided to people living in Várzea Grande”, he emphasized.