Effectiveness of a cataract surgery prioritization tool
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Summary
Cataract is a major cause of vision loss in Australia. Though cataract surgery is a highly cost effective means to restore vision, waiting lists for cataract surgery have amongst the longest waiting times of elective surgery waiting lists in NSW. This project will investigate the effectiveness of a cataract surgery prioritization tool.
Supervisor(s)
Research Location
City - The George Institute for Global Health
Program Type
PHD
Synopsis
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed elective surgery in Australia, with approximately 200,000 surgeries each year. However, vision impairment due to cataract is relatively common and around 1.7 million Australians are affected at any one time. Cataract-related vision impairment has many negative consequences including increased risk of falls. Many individuals with un-operated cataract drive and changes to vision can have implications for continued ability to drive and in worst case crash involvement. Cataract can also reduce quality of life and independence.
A longitudinal cohort study is planned to observe individuals with cataract from presentation to after first eye cataract surgery and approximately 400 cataract surgery candidates will be recruited. A cataract surgery prioritization tool will be administered at baseline. The validity of the scores on this tool will be evaluated in terms of subsequent impact of cataract waiting time on quality of life, mobility, independence and injury risk. The findings will be used to refine instruments for surgical prioritization for cataract.
Additional Information
Applicants should hold an appropriate Masters Degree in Orthoptics or Honours 1 or high 2A (or equivalent) undergraduate degree in Vision Science or other related discipline. A Masters level qualification in public health, would be an advantage. Applicants must be Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens.
Amount awarded:
It is intended that a scholarship will be created equivalent to the Australian Postgraduate Award rate for a period of three years (tax exempt). Alternatively, a top-up scholarship valued at $10,000 per annum will be offered to recipients of an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) or other alternative funding sources.
Application guide:
For further information, please contact Dr Lisa Keay on +61 9657 0335 or lkeay@georgeinstitute.org.au.
Applications, including a cover letter, current CV, copy of academic transcripts, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, the names and contact details of at least two referees should be submitted to Dr Lisa Keay, Injury Division, PO Box M201, Missenden Road, Sydney NSW 2050, Fax: +61 2 9657 0301. Website
Closing date: 15th October 2012
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Opportunity ID
The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is: 1604
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