In this episode of Defocus Media, Dr. Darryl Glover explores the world of remote eye care innovation with special guest Dr. Scott Seaburg. As a leader in digital optometry, Dr. Seaburg has been instrumental in pioneering remote care solutions transforming the landscape of patient exams and practice management. The discussion explores how cutting-edge technology, like the HELIX and Vision(X) platform, allows optometrists to provide comprehensive, high-quality eye exams remotely, enhancing access to eye care nationwide. From advanced 4K video diagnostics to state-of-the-art phoropters, Dr. Seaburg walks us through the groundbreaking tools redefining the patient experience and shaping the future of optometry.

Remote care is not a novel concept in healthcare; however, its application within optometry has largely been limited until recently. With increasing demands on eye care professionals and a national shortage of optometrists, remote care bridges essential gaps by ensuring accessibility without compromising quality. Dr. Seaburg emphasizes, “Optometry needs to own this space—comprehensive exams are the backbone of our field, and delivering them remotely is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity.”

The HELIX and Vision(X) platform exemplifies this shift, featuring a comprehensive suite of tools designed to bring in-office examination quality to remote settings. By integrating pre-test assessments, slit lamp exams, retinal imaging, and video recordings into one digital platform, optometrists can now remotely perform eye exams with the same precision as an in-person setting.

One of the standout features of remote optometric care is the quality and accessibility of digital diagnostics. For instance, the HELIX and Vision(X) platform includes capabilities for 4K video and retinal imaging, allowing eye care professionals to capture and analyze corneal health and retinal conditions with high accuracy.

“Comprehensive doesn’t mean complex,” Dr. Seaburg notes. “With digital integration, it’s all stored securely in the cloud, making it easier for optometrists to access vital data quickly and efficiently.”

For example, patients undergo pre-tests similar to in-person exams—NCT, visual fields, and retinal imaging. This ensures continuity of care and allows remote doctors to access all necessary diagnostic information from the platform, improving diagnosis and treatment planning.

An essential advancement in the digital optometry toolkit is the Essilor Vision R700, featuring proprietary liquid crystal lenses that seamlessly adjust to different prescriptions without the traditional “clicking” sound. This innovative technology offers a smoother experience for patients, allowing for a broader field of vision and less of a confined feeling during refraction exams.

Dr. Seaburg highlights, “Patients notice and appreciate the modern look and feel of the Vision R700. One patient even remarked, ‘You’re not using that old equipment on me!’ This technology signals that optometry is keeping pace with modern healthcare.”

The practicality of remote care is evident in the time saved, and efficiency gained. Using HELIX’s cloud-based system, data from each exam is automatically exported to the patient’s profile, ready for analysis. Video data compression allows seamless 4K transmission, even across long distances, which Dr. Seaburg says is essential for meeting high patient volumes without sacrificing quality.

As Dr. Darryl Glover observes, “Every second counts in optometry. Streamlined processes improve access to care and directly impact practice profitability.” Small time savings across exams can significantly boost patient satisfaction and the bottom line in a high-demand field like optometry.

One major advantage of this system is its adaptability to remote and in-person examinations. Optometrists can seamlessly switch between in-office and remote patients, using the same equipment and setup for continuity in patient care. HELIX allows practices to optimize exam rooms, ensuring they aren’t underutilized, even if the doctor is not physically present.

“Comprehensive care shouldn’t stop at the clinic door,” says Dr. Seaburg. With the addition of dry eye modules and meibography capabilities, optometrists can diagnose and treat various conditions remotely, making it easier for patients facing mobility or scheduling challenges.

To enhance patient experience and build trust, HELIX provides digital tools for consultations and patient education. Through this platform, optometrists can share screen visuals of prescriptions, lens options, and even disease education, allowing patients to understand the recommendations made during their exam visually. As Dr. Glover humorously shares, “Gone are the days of drawing stick figures on Post-its. With digital visuals, patients truly grasp the importance of the lenses and treatments we recommend.”

This digital consultation model has proven effective in increasing lens sales and patient compliance with treatment plans. By visualizing conditions like AMD or diabetic retinopathy through short, explanatory videos, patients feel more connected to their diagnosis and treatment journey, a factor essential for managing chronic conditions.

Another case study conducted in a multi-location optometry practice using HELIX’s remote platform reported a 30% reduction in patient wait times. With remote diagnostics and consultations, doctors could focus on in-office exams while handling remote patients during downtime. This model optimized clinic workflow and allowed the practice to expand care to underserved regions, effectively broadening their patient base without additional physical infrastructure.

HELIX offers a flexible, scalable solution for solo practitioners and large-scale practices. From small clinics to multi-doctor facilities, the platform allows for customizing service offerings based on location and doctor availability. Additionally, HELIX provides “Doctors as a Service,” connecting remote doctors to practices in need, which is particularly beneficial for smaller clinics that may not have the patient volume for a full-time optometrist.

Dr. Seaburg explains, “Doctors as a Service enables practices to expand without overcommitting financially. Practices only pay for exams completed, allowing flexibility and reducing overhead.”

Remote care is most effective when it operates within a connected network. Recognizing this, HELIX includes an integrated referral system, allowing doctors to refer patients to local specialists based on the practice’s pre-defined referral network. Whether it’s a referral for a retina specialist or vision therapy, this system ensures patients receive the necessary follow-up without gaps in their care journey.

“Our referral system creates a seamless transition, ensuring patients feel guided and supported even after their remote consultation. It’s about creating a true continuum of care,” Dr. Seaburg adds.

Find more information on HELIX and Vision(X) at www.helixsolution.com.