The purpose of this study is to determine how health literacy impacts glaucoma patient adherence (as measured by following up with the doctor) in Tamil Nadu, India. We hypothesize that individuals with better health literacy will have higher rates of follow-up with their ophthalmologist.
Many studies have shown the importance of health literacy on patient adherence in the United States (Juzych, M, et al., 2008; Muir, KW, et al., 2006). Low adherence in glaucoma patients leads to increased intraocular pressure, optic nerve damage, and blindness. To date, no research has been done with health literacy and patient adherence in the developing world. We will use TOFHLA and REALM to assess the health literacy of glaucoma patients in Tamil Nadu, India. We will also survey other demographic information and patient knowledge of glaucoma. This information will be compared with follow-up rates to identify barriers to patient adherence.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
250
Aravind Eye Hospital
Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Association between TOFHLA and REALM and the probability of return for follow-up visit
Time frame: 1 year from enrollemnt
Association between religion, caste, education, socio-economic status, employment, and available time for doctor visits and the probability of return for follow-up visit.
Time frame: 1 year from enrollment
Association between marital status, number of dependents, family history of glaucoma, travel, need for an escort, understanding of glaucoma, and paying status and the probability of return for follow-up visit.
Time frame: 1 year from enrollment
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