Eye care service delivery and outcomes in developed and developing countries

Project reference number: SHLS19032

Background
Worldwide, about 400 million people are visually impaired or blind, constituting considerable demand for eye care globally.(Bourne et al. 2017) Effective and accessible eye care provision can make a drastic difference to the lives of millions of people as 80% of all causes of visual impairment are preventable or curable. WHO has produced a list of priority eye diseases and the Universal Eye Health Global Action Plan is aimed at meeting the most pressing needs and reducing rates of visual impairment.(WHO 2014) The WHO framework has been adopted by many countries, including emerging economies as well as developed countries. However, the feasibility of translating a framework into effective eye care provision within a specific country depends on a range of factors including an appropriately trained workforce, appropriate structural facilities such as a developed primary and secondary care level and adequate financial resources to support the provision of eye care. These factors vary greatly between countries and while effective systems are in place in some countries (e.g. the UK), this is often not the case in countries that are in the process of developing their economies. Little is also known about the preferences of patients accessing eye care.

Aims
This PhD will focus on the provision of eye care services in developed and/or developing countries (to be specified with candidate). The research will explore patient pathways of eye care, assess clinical outcomes of eye care provision and issues relating to inequalities in health, and specifically eye care. As part of the project, the student may develop models of eye care provision that take into account country-specific factors.

Methods
A mixed methods approach may be used including quantitative analysis of administrative health care data, surveys, and qualitative assessments of societal views of preferences in eye care delivery.

Specifications
The successful applicant will have a background in eye care, for example optometry or ophthalmology and be holding the minimum of a first degree (2:1 or above). Previous experience of health services and quantitative research methodology is desirable.

Candidates are requested to submit a more detailed research proposal (of a maximum of 2000 words) on the project area as part of their application.

Research Strategy and Research Profile
Glasgow Caledonian University’s research is framed around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, We address the Goals via three societal challenge areas of Inclusive Societies, Healthy Lives and Sustainable Environments. This project is part of the research activity of the Vision and Public Health Research Group at GCU

https://www.gcu.ac.uk/hls/research/researchgroups/appliedvisionresearch/visionandpublichealth/
https://www.gcu.ac.uk/hls/staff/drsvenjonuscheit/


How to Apply
This project is available as a 3 year full-time PhD study programme with a start date of 1st October 2019
For information on how to apply and the online application form please go to
https://www.gcu.ac.uk/research/postgraduateresearchstudy/applicationprocess/
Applicants shortlisted for the PhD project will be contacted for an interview.