Category: 2026-2027

Maddie Thigpen

Maddie Thigpen

Maddie Thigpen

School: UAB School of Optometry

Site: Live HealthSmart Alabama

Maddie is improving patient education during diabetic retinal screenings at Live HealthSmart Alabama. As retinal imaging expands into clinics without onsite optometrists, patients often receive limited explanation and experience delays in results. She is developing accessible, standardized education tools for technicians to use at the point of care, helping patients understand the purpose of screening and what their results may mean. This project aims to increase patient understanding, engagement, and follow-up in diabetic eye care.