Telemedicine in optometry is most likely here to stay; therefore, optometrists need to be aware of this technology and its clinical uses and implications. Before the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, use of telemedicine had been steadily increasing in the United States for several years, with only 15% of physicians in-office using telemedicine in 2010-2019 (Healthit 2023). … Continued
In broader terms, telemedicine is a service that delivers medical care remotely between a clinician and patient (i.e., without an in-person clinic visit) via information-communication technology. In addition to clinical services, telehealth may encompass remote non-clinical services, such as administrative meetings, continuing education, and clinician training. Teleoptometry, or teleophthalmology, is a form of telemedicine that … Continued
For optometrists, the topic of telemedicine in optometry may bring to mind ideas of innovation, excitement, and patient outreach or of angst, resistance, and denial. No matter one’s opinion on telemedicine, a couple of points are necessary to address. First, understand that responsible telemedicine in optometry is not the selling of contact lenses and glasses … Continued
Accommodation: The process of the eyes’ ability to focus on objects at all distances for a clear image Acute glaucoma: A sudden or rapid onset type of glaucoma. Also known as Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma Adhered/Adherent: A contact lens that is temporarily stuck onto the cornea, making removal difficult Adnexa: The entire ocular area, including … Continued