IbisVision announced the upcoming U.S. launch of an updated version of its Ibis-Connect platform, an innovative telemedicine solution designed for delivering eyeglass prescriptions via the internet.
Give me a rundown on the company.
Founded in 2014, the Glasgow, Scotland-based, remote ophthalmic technology company—with a U.S. location in Miami, Florida—provides remote vision testing software within the optical industry.
Based on a patented technology—which covers visual field testing with a cursor and LED screen— the company’s Ring of Sight (ROS) eye test (offering up to 11 different diagnostic eye tests) is specifically designed for the early detection of glaucoma via a remotely-operated and deployed application via Cloud technology.
Click here to see its other offerings.
Now this platform.
The Ibis-Connect is an interactive platform based off of the company’s original eye-health platform (ROS), complete with the capability to continually measure a patient’s distance from the camera via their digital device
An intuitive interface is designed for more reliable, high-quality readings from the patient, which is then overseen and tracked by an eyecare professional (ECP), remotely.
To note, testing can be completed via a laptop, computer, tablet, or smartphone.
What are patients provided with for the testing?
The platform comes with a proprietary remote refraction tool (RRT) and requires an internet connection. According to the company, that’s it.
Give me a few highlights.
Per IbisVision, the clinician-led platform allows for ECPs to:
- Test patients no matter their location
- See and speak with patient via the platform itself
- Accurately position patients remotely
- Deliver examinations in real-time
What kind of tests can be performed?
Per IbisVision, popular tests include:
- Visual acuity
- Visual field
- Refraction
- Amsler grid
- Color vision
How does the prescription part come into play?
According to IbisVision, prescription orders are combined with existing remote technology for patients to virtually try various glasses on to determine the best fit, look, and style.
Any clinical data on it?
In progress … the company reported that the system is “currently undergoing rigorous clinical trials.”However, it’s also reported to be HIPAA-compliant, in receipt of a CE mark (in the European Union), and FDA listed.
Does FDA listed mean approved?
Nope, not quite.
A Class I (low risk) medical device that is “FDA listed” or “FDA registered” (used synonymously)—such as the Ibis-Connect—does not require a pre-market review (510[k] exempted).
FDA approved medical devices (Class III; high risk), on the other hand, must undergo a rigorous review and approval process in order to be legally marketed.
Gotcha. Now what led to this US expansion?
After receiving an FDA listing for the Ibis-Connect in March 2023, it really just came down to the funding.
Shortly after—In May 2023—the company raised £4.5 million (US $5.6 million) to support opening its Florida location, doubling its workforce in the process.
The goal: ramping up U.S sales of its remote prescription technology.
So why remote testing?
IbisVision’s CEO Mark Roger stated that a platform such as the Ibis-Connect is the breakthrough optometrists have been waiting for, enabling them to both test and issue prescriptions online.
“This opens up huge potential not only in making eyecare available to all, but in turbocharging e-commerce behind the optometry industry, and allowing for optometrists to serve communities without investing vast amounts in cumbersome machinery,” he stated, in a company announcement.
Lastly … where can I find this platform and learn more??
If you’re attending this year’s 2023 Vision Expo West meeting—September 27-30, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center—you’re in luck! IbisVision will be launching Ibis-Connect during the show where they can be visited at Booth #PAN2051..
Further, if you would like to book an appointment to speak with the CEO, Head of Partnerships, or Head of US Operations at the show, click here.