Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA)
Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) is the leading body for 8.5 million Australians affected by macular diseases, the primary cause of vision loss in Australia. Established in 2001 by Dr. Paul Beaumont, MDFA prioritises patient needs, advocating for early detection, prevention, and research. They collaboratively developed the National Strategic Action Plan, aiming to streamline resources and actions to combat macular diseases.
The need
We have been working with Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) since early 2021 on a series of online learning modules on eye health to support GPs, Pharmacists, Optometrists, Orthoptists, Diabetes Educators, and other health providers.
These modules provide Continuing Professional Development points and have been rolled out with the support of:
- Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine
- Oculo
- Optometry Australia
- Orthoptics Australia
- Vision 2020
- Pharmaceutical Society of Australia
- The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists
- Australian Diabetes Educators Association
The learning solution
These modules have covered the following topics:
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
This module looks at prevalence rates and the impact of AMD on patients and the health system. It covers the stages of AMD and how to differentially diagnose AMD from other macular conditions. Also included are management guidelines and treatment options, how to identify and modify risk factors, and how to effectively communicate with and support your patient.
Diabetic Eye Disease (DED)
This module looks at prevalence rates and symptoms and discusses the anatomy of the eye and imaging and grading for DED. It looks at treatment options, how to modify your risks, and what the referral pathways are. Lastly, it covers how to engage and communicate with your patient and what collaborative care looks like in this context.
Inherited Retinal Disease (IRD)
This module covers prevalence rates and the impact of IRDs on patients and the health system. It clarifies the key signs and symptoms and IRD classification and imaging techniques. It looks at the management and treatment options for IRD, including how to modify your risk factors, and covers the support services available for patients.
