Tele-Optometry
Virtual & In-Person Care Come Together for Quicker, More Convenient Access
With this option, patients can be seen for their annual eye exam within one week, even at times when there may be is a weeks or months-long wait to see an optometrist in-person at that location.
Tele-Optometry is Available at Bassett Medical Center’s Eye Care Clinic
Tele-Optometry combines in-person and virtual care so that patients receive the same amount of attention and all of the standard vision tests and eye health screenings that would be performed during a traditional appointment.
The patient travels to the Bassett Medical Center Eye Care Clinic, just like they would for a standard appointment at the clinic.
The patient is seen in-person by an optometric technologist who performs all of the standard vision tests and eye health screenings with them.
An optometrist who is accustomed to this type of appointment joins virtually. Even though the patient interacts with the doctor on a screen, the doctor has access to all data, results, and notes taken by the technologist.
The doctor provides the same high-quality care they would if they were physically in the room. The patient has their questions and concerns answered. The doctor files their prescription and the appointment concludes.
Wet Refraction vs. Dry Refraction
During a Tele-Optometry appointment, technologists utilize dry refraction instead of wet refraction to observe the eyes and test their ability to dilate.
Wet refraction is when a specific kind of eye drop is used to dilate the eyes. The temporary blurred vision caused by wet refraction can prevent patients from driving home on their own after their appointment and can put the rest of their day on hold.
Instead, the dry refraction used during a Tele-Optometry appointment allows the same tests to be performed by utilizing the eye’s natural ability to focus and dilate, without the use of eye drops.
This is a perfectly acceptable option for most patients that allows them to get back to their lives faster after their appointment.
Wondering if this Option is Right for You? Give us a Call!
If you prefer seeing your Bassett optometrist in-person, don’t worry. Those appointments remain available.
Tele-Optometry is best suited for patients with relatively healthy eyes. Prescriptions for both glasses and/or contact lenses can be completed during these visits. This option is currently only available at the Bassett Eye Care Clinic in Cooperstown.
Both new and existing patients are invited to call (607) 547-3140 and ask for a Tele-Optometry appointment.
