Date of Award
Spring 3-31-2025
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
Arts and Sciences
First Advisor
Wynette Mockler
Second Advisor
Amy Nelson
Third Advisor
Elizabeth Vogt
Keywords
social determinants of health, diabetic retinopathy, telehealth
Subject Categories
Medicine and Health Sciences | Ophthalmology | Public Health Education and Promotion | Telemedicine
Abstract
Studies have shown a strong correlation between diabetes and individuals in low-income communities, which often lack access to equitable healthcare for a variety of reasons. This honors thesis will focus on diabetic retinopathy, its prevalence, prevention, and treatment strategies in both low- and high-income communities. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to define diabetic retinopathy, assess its prevalence, and review past and present approaches to its treatment and prevention. This paper aims to identify strategies to improve healthcare accessibility in low-income communities by analyzing current strategies in place to prevent and treat diabetic retinopathy and proposing potential solutions that will make them more accessible to everyone.
Recommended Citation
Mutchelknaus, Morkeia A., "Addressing Diabetic Retinopathy Prevalence in Low-Income Communities: Barriers to Quality Healthcare and Strategies for Equitable Treatment Access" (2025). Honors Thesis. 399.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/399
Included in
Ophthalmology Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons, Telemedicine Commons