Sydney Eye Hospital introduces remote retinal assessments

This will specifically benefit Aboriginal people.

Sydney Eye Hospital has installed new retinal cameras, a technology that will allow specialists to provide diagnosis and treatment plans for patients living in regional and remote areas.

According to the health ministry, the retinal cameras were installed at the new Gadigal Eye Clinic to conduct eye checks in Moree without the need of an on-site specialist. Coverage will be later expanded to include Tamworth.

This service will specifically benefit Aboriginal people to have the same access to services, without needing to leave their community.

Virtual service will begin in 2025.

"We know that Aboriginal people are three times more likely to suffer from visual impairments than non-Aboriginal Australians. They are also four times more likely to have diabetic eye disease and 12 times more likely to have a blinding cataract,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.

“This clinic will address these statistics, acting as a hub for in-person as well as virtual care services for eye patients throughout rural and regional NSW,” he added.