Dinajpur

Researchers are evaluating whether automated voice message reminders about the risk of vision loss in people with diabetes mellitus (DM), combined with the provision of free reading glasses, can increase the number of patients who attend their scheduled diabetes and diabetic retinopathy (DR) exams on time. The study aims to compare the effect of voice messages that include both appointment reminders and educational information on the importance of visit and medication compliance versus messages that only remind patients of their appointments. It also seeks to assess the cost-effectiveness of this approach in improving patient-centered diabetic care in Bangladesh. Participants will receive automated voice messages emphasizing the risk of vision loss from poorly controlled DM and how this risk can be prevented by following medication and clinic visit schedules. They will also be given a free pair of reading glasses at their first appointment. The study focuses on patients treated at the Dinajpur Diabetes Hospital who have been diagnosed with diabetes within the past six months and are over 30 years old. During the study, researchers will track whether patients complete their diabetes or DR exams within three weeks of the scheduled date. They will monitor appointment adherence and evaluate the total cost per additional patient who complies with exam recommendations. Participants must have a mobile phone to receive the voice reminders and provide informed consent to take part in the study. The overall goal is to improve timely attendance and quality of care for patients with diabetes and diabetic eye disease.