Virtual Vision Health (VVH), a Miami, Florida-based medical equipment manufacturing company, is introducing a new component to its Virtual Eye Virtual Reality (VR) platform: visual acuity (VA) testing.
Let’s start with this platform.
Developed and validated at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the Virtual Eye VR platform is an FDA-registered, portable medical device.
What it does: Incorporates cloud-based technology that carries out standard-of-care visual field (VF) testing—without the typical constraints associated with standard automated perimetry (SAP) tests.
- To note: These exams are also billable to insurance.
Explain its capabilities.
The device provides:
- Audio instructions (replacing the need for clinical staff monitoring)
- Ability for eyecare providers (ECPs) to test patients in any location
Plus: It’s equipped with a number of capabilities, including 265-bit encryption for secured patient records, electronic medical record (EMR) compatibility, and easy sanitization options (see here for details on each of these).
- Also: The software is notably HIPAA compliant.
Nex: Zero in on how the testing typically works.
Three steps are outlined:
- An ECP inputs a patient’s data into the software
- Once added, the ECP can set up a VF test for new patients (in less than 2 minutes, VVH reports)
- Once the test commences, audio instructions guide patients through the exam (eliminating the need for staff to monitor)
- Upon completion, ECPs can print or download the VF test and save to their EMR system
As a bonus: Last year, the company unveiled new testing features for an upgraded version of the Virtual Eye device (dubbed the Virtual Eye Pro). See our coverage.
And this VA testing integration?
As with the device’s VF testing capabilities, the addition of VA exams to the Virtual Eye VR platform is intended to give “greater access to real-time, data-driven insights while improving patient experience and workflow efficiency.”
- Its purpose: To provide regular monitoring of ocular changes and maintenance of overall eye health.
The benefits of this integration, per VVH:
- Streamlined testing process
- Conducting multiple exams via a single VR platform (no need for more than one device and reducing setup time)
- Mobility and flexibility
- Wireless and portable capabilities for consistent and accurate testing
- Advanced data integration
- Analytics via VVH’s WebApp for more data-driven decision-making
- Optimized workflow and revenue
- Shorter testing times with high diagnostic accuracy
Nice! So … has this device undergone any clinical testing to verify its capabilities?
Indeed it has, though not for VA exams. The platform is supported by over 2 years of clinical research on its VF testing, including peer-reviewed literature and abstract.
However, additional clinical trials on the device are reported to be underway.
And lastly: How can I learn more about adding it to my practice?
Click here to request details.