New Queen’s web site keeps doctors in the loop

Wednesday September 20, 2006

A unique new Queen’s University web site is helping doctors around the globe solve one of their most pressing problems: how to keep up with the latest medical developments.

Launched recently by ophthalmologist Dr. Sanjay Sharma, the web site at: www.ebeyecase.ca received more than 100 subscriber requests in its first week of operation, from as far away as England and France. “We’re really pleased with the initial response,” says Dr. Sharma. “There’s a huge need for doctors to know more about eye diseases and this project has obviously struck a chord with them.”

Using evidence-based information, doctors diagnose real-life cases from photos and details posted on the new site. To answer the questions they are required to do an Internet literature search.

“What they’re getting is not only information on a particular case, but also the very latest research in a given area,” Dr. Sharma explains. “With advice from our national editorial board, we’ll be rolling out 12 cases a year, and are trying to ensure that big ’bread and butter’ ophthalmology topics are covered. As well, we will cover diseases associated with eye problems, like diabetes and multiple sclerosis, which all doctors should know about.”

A distinctive feature of the site is that professional CME (Continuing Medical Education) certificates can be downloaded once participants have passed the required on-line tests. And while their responses are being scored, participants watch a video of either an editorial or a new surgical or diagnostic technique.

The site is aimed at both eye specialists and family doctors who would like to expand their knowledge in this area. As well as the above URL intended for Canadian doctors, there is another site targeted internationally, at: www.ebeyecase.com

“In the past 10 years we have seen less and less time dedicated to eyes in the medical curriculum - to the point where a lot of doctors are very uncomfortable with ophthalmology,” says Dr. Sharma. “And with so much new, evidence-based information out there, this seemed like a good way to address this issue. It’s also nice that our web site has been created entirely by doctors, rather than pharmaceutical companies that might want to dictate the content,” he adds.

Attention broadcasters: Queen’s has facilities to provide broadcast quality audio and video feeds. For television interviews, we can provide a live, real-time double ender from Kingston fibre optic cable. Please call for details.

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Lorinda Peterson

Queen’s News & Media Services

Queen’s University

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