Diabetic Retinopathy Special OP: A Focused Initiative by the Department of Shalakyatantra
The Department of Shalakyatantra at Government Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram, has established a Diabetic Retinopathy Special OP to provide targeted care for patients suffering from this vision-threatening condition. Initiated in 2019, the OP is designed for the management of diagnosed cases presenting with visual symptoms, aiming to prevent disease progression and preserve vision through timely intervention.
The OP functions every Monday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, offering consultation, appropriate medications, and guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications. This structured approach helps in controlling the progression of diabetic retinopathy, which is a major complication of diabetes affecting the retina and potentially leading to visual impairment.
A key feature of this initiative is its dedicated and focused service model. The Special OP facilitates early diagnosis, regular follow-up, continuous monitoring, and systematic medicine distribution. It also emphasizes patient education through structured counselling on diet and lifestyle, which plays a crucial role in managing the condition effectively.
In 2025 alone, a total of 202 patients with diabetic retinopathy received treatment through this OP. Medicines worth approximately ₹1.5 lakh were distributed, ensuring accessibility and continuity of care for patients.
Overall, the Diabetic Retinopathy Special OP stands as an important patient-centered initiative that integrates clinical care, preventive strategies, and education to reduce the risk of visual disability and improve quality of life.
