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New research · Ophthalmology
Journal of vitreoretinal diseases · 1w
Cross-sectionalJournal of vitreoretinal diseases · 2026

Diabetic Retinopathy Screening and Treatment Capacity in Student-Run Free Clinics: A National Assessment.

Jacob Larsen, Haider Sarwar, Daniel Fu … Deidre St Peter
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OphthalmologyCross-sectional

Few student-run free clinics offer any access to diabetic retinopathy treatment

Diabetic Retinopathy Screening and Treatment Capacity in Student-Run Free Clinics: A National Assessment.

Jacob Larsen … Deidre St Peter
Journal of vitreoretinal diseases · 2026
Purpose

To characterize ophthalmic resources and evaluate diabetic retinopathy screening, treatment, and referral practices among student-run free clinics in the United States that provide ophthalmology services.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 54 student-run free clinics identified through a national network.

n = 54 student-run free clinics
Results

few clinics could connect patients to treatment for diabetic retinopathy

95%
DR screening
14%
DR treatment access
More results

Of the 54 clinics contacted, 21 (39%) responded, representing 13 states.

All clinics reported caring for patients with diabetic retinopathy (100%), glaucoma (81%), and cataracts (76%).

Primary funding sources included grants (38%) and alternative funding mechanisms (29%).

More results

Key barriers to comprehensive care included insufficient funding, lack of diagnostic equipment, and limited availability of trained clinical personnel.

“
Conclusion · 1 of 2

Student-run free clinics commonly provide diabetic retinopathy screening but lack the capacity to deliver definitive treatment, relying primarily on external referral pathways.

Conclusion · 2 of 2

Strengthening academic partnerships and expanding treatment access may improve equitable, vision-preserving care for underserved populations.

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