Dinajpur

Researchers are evaluating whether using automated voice message reminders can increase attendance to diabetes mellitus DM and diabetic retinopathy DR appointments and improve patient-centered diabetic care in Bangladesh. The study aims to find out if messages that include both appointment reminders and education about the risk of vision loss lead to better appointment adherence compared to reminders alone. It also examines the cost-effectiveness of these interventions in improving patient compliance with exams. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives automated voice message reminders about their exam dates only. The other group receives similar reminders plus additional messages educating them on the risk of vision loss from poorly controlled diabetes and the importance of following visits and medication schedules. This group also receives a free pair of reading glasses at their first appointment. The study starts in August 2025 and measures outcomes up to three weeks following scheduled exam dates. During the study, participants are monitored for completing their diabetes or DR exams within three weeks of the scheduled date. Researchers track appointment adherence and calculate cost-effectiveness as the cost per additional patient who follows the exam recommendations. Participants must have a mobile phone to receive messages, and they give informed consent to participate. The study excludes those with other major causes of vision loss or medical conditions like stroke or dementia that could affect follow-up compliance. The total participation length varies by appointment scheduling and adherence.

Researchers are evaluating whether integrating vision care into diabetes treatment can improve health outcomes for people with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy DR. The study focuses on whether providing diabetes doctors with specific diabetes management recommendations alongside positive eye exam results leads to better blood sugar control, as measured by the proportion of participants reaching World Health Organization WHO targets for HbA1c or blood sugar levels. This trial also assesses the cost-effectiveness of this approach compared to standard care. Participants are randomized into two groups. One group receives only their diabetic retinopathy results sent to their diabetologist without specific care recommendations. The other group receives DR results plus tailored diabetes management recommendations based on international guidelines, prompting doctors to adjust medications if needed. The intervention targets optimizing blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid control for patients with any DR. The study lasts from enrollment until a chart review three months later. During the study, researchers review medical charts to measure how many participants reach the WHO blood sugar targets. They also evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the intervention by calculating the total cost per additional patient meeting these targets. Participants are monitored for adherence to care recommendations, and the study includes safety checks to ensure participants can comply with retinal photography and follow-up visits. The total participation duration is approximately three months from enrollment to chart review.