REMOTE TELE-OPTOMETRY is coming……………………..

[Chris Ryser]

Tele-Optometry by Digital Optometrics

Dr.Howard, a Doctor of Optometry for more than 20 years, identified the national need for additional Optometrists by providers of optical exams. Providers were unable to meet the demand of patients for optical exams. He was determined to find a solution and assembled a team of optical software development specialists​ to design a solution to the problem and permit patient access to comprehensive eye health exam at the convenience of patients.


The Process:


After Two years of development Dr. Howard and his team harnessed new advancements in technology to introduce Tele-Optometry by Digital Optometrics. It’s an optical system that begins with a patient entering information and medical history on computer tablet, the gathering of patient eye data from ten (10) health and vision analysis tests including a visual eye refraction by a qualified Ophthalmic Technician using the capabilities of the internet with high-definition video conferencing and remote operated optical equipment. All Of the patient data is then reviewed remotely by a licensed Optometrist. The Optometrist can, if necessary, further refine the corrective lens findings remotely and “will” review the results of the optical exam “and answer patient questions” by video conferencing. At the conclusion of the exam the patient is issued a new corrective prescription for glasses or contacts or may be referred to a specialist based upon the findings of the doctor……….all within 30 minutes.

Continue:

http://www.digitaloptometrics.com/tele-optometry

[Tallboy]

What "national need" for additional optometrists. Aren't there tons of optometrists out there?

[Chris Ryser]

What "national need" for additional optometrists. Aren't there tons of optometrists out there?

.........................maybe this is geared towards optical online sales ?

you got to think of all the open options to boost the market corners.

[Tallboy]

.........................maybe this is geared towards optical online sales ?

you got to think of all the open options to boost the market corners.

Oh I have no doubt that is part of his plan, as is offering in store tele exams (which he offers us to sign up for). I was just pointing out that his stated reason for researching this technology is that after " for more than 20 years, identified the national need for additional Optometrists by providers of optical exams. " is just a ridiculous statement by him, and the kind of thing I have a hard time taking anything else he says seriously.

[fjpod]

There are many aspects to this issue that are not part of the conversation.

It may not be legal for unlicensed individuals (or improperly licensed individuals) to administer vision tests in a setting where no doctor is physically present.

It may not be legal for refraction to be separated from a comprehensive eye exam.

Some State Boards have ruled on these questions. The "tele-health" aspect of this is inconsequential.

[Skol]

There are many aspects to this issue that are not part of the conversation.

It may not be legal for unlicensed individuals (or improperly licensed individuals) to administer vision tests in a setting where no doctor is physically present.

It may not be legal for refraction to be separated from a comprehensive eye exam.

Some State Boards have ruled on these questions. The "tele-health" aspect of this is inconsequential.

I agree.

Of the many challenges out there, this phenomenon of 'tele-optometry' concerns me the least.

Not only for what you list, but also for these 'facts':
The 'live' eye exam is not hard to get, virtually any day.
Our fields (opticianry/optometry) are uber-competitive which results in favorable consumer choices in both
prices and 'live' exam visit availability.
We are all very good looking and personable.
Who wouldnt prefer to have us 'live'?

[CNG]

[QUOTE=fjpod;549260]There are many aspects to this issue that are not part of the conversation.

It may not be legal for unlicensed individuals (or improperly licensed individuals) to administer vision tests in a setting where no doctor is physically present.

It may not be legal for refraction to be separated from a comprehensive eye exam.

Some State Boards have ruled on these questions. The "tele-health" aspect of this is inconsequential.[/QUOTE


If optometry does not enter into the era of telemedicine it will concede to ophthalmology that large segment of eye care. The companies that are offering these services are quietly growing putting its services in almost all of the big boxes and in many private opticians offices. As a reminder optometry boards have no teeth on medical practitioners nor on licensed opticians or possibly big boxes from offerings these services.

CNG

[CNG]

[QUOTE=fjpod;549260]There are many aspects to this issue that are not part of the conversation.

It may not be legal for unlicensed individuals (or improperly licensed individuals) to administer vision tests in a setting where no doctor is physically present.

It may not be legal for refraction to be separated from a comprehensive eye exam.

Some State Boards have ruled on these questions. The "tele-health" aspect of this is inconsequential.[/QUOTE


If optometry does not enter into the era of telemedicine it will concede to ophthalmology that large segment of eye care. The companies that are offering these services are quietly growing putting its services in almost all of the big boxes and in many private opticians offices. As a reminder optometry boards have no teeth on medical practitioners nor on licensed opticians or possibly big boxes from offerings these services.

CNG

[Quig]

Did a little looking at Vision Expo West today just out of curiosity. The range of possibilities is large and, imho, some are pathetic, and others are beyond impressive. And, the price range is just as wide. Interesting for sure.