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Wondering what is tele-optometry? It is a virtual exam that is run via live video conferencing in place of where a trained technician is able to conduct the proper pre-testing that is needed to gather vital data. However, all of the technology that is utilized allows for the doctor to conduct a comprehensive exam that yields accurate results remotely. Your doctor can still administer a glasses or contact lens prescription or refer you to a specialist for further advanced care. Ultimately, a tele-optometry exam is the same as the traditional in-person eye examination.
HOW TELE-OPTOMETRY CAN HELP YOU?
Tele-optometry is the latest technological advancement used by optometrists. The services of tele-optometry have been made possible due to the advancement of modern communication devices such as videoconferencing. The remote eye exam consists of a trained optometric technician performing pre-testing exams and collecting vital exam data and uploading this information into the patient chart (just as the doctor would do if they were in office).
In a story from CNN, the reporter Jacqueline Howard found that the exam performed physically and via tele-optometry didn’t have any difference in results and were the same. From the report, it can be concluded that while remote comprehensive eye exams might not be right for every patient, a majority of patients will be able to reap the same benefits from a remote eye exam as they would from an in-person eye exam.
Tele-Optometry Is Not A Replacement Of Physical Checkup
Tele-optometry cannot replace in-office visits. There still exist situations in which a patient must visit an in-person optometrist for further care. In situations where further care is needed due to glaucoma treatment, macular degeneration treatment, cataract removal, and diabetic retinopathy treatment, your remote Optometrist will refer and direct you to the proper Ophthalmologist.
Scope of Tele-optometry
With the aid of tele-optometry, doctors are still able to prescribe accurate glasses and contact lens prescriptions as well as diagnose key ocular diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic Retinopathy, hypertensive Retinopathy, as well as numerous other conditions.
Tele-optometry, an Emerging Trend
Tele-optometry saw a great boost in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic but it appears that its presence is here to stay. The quick adoption of remote eye exams during the pandemic became necessary for an optometrist to still be able to offer services while still adhering to COVID guidelines.
Tele-optometry is a great branch of medicine, especially for people with limited access to in-person healthcare particularly in remote areas.
What happens during a virtual eye exam?
