Virtual Visits in Ophthalmology: Timely Advice for Implementation During the COVID-19 Public Health Crisis
Theodore Bowe, David G. Hunter, Iason S. Mantagos, Melanie Kazlas, Benjamin G. Jastrzembski, Eric D. Gaier, Gordon Massey, Kristin Franz, Caitlin Schumann, Christina Brown, Heather Meyers, Ankoor S. Shah
Abstract
Virtual visits (VVs) are necessitated due to the public health crisis and social distancing mandates due to COVID-19. However, these have been rare in ophthalmology. Over 3.5 years of conducting >350 ophthalmological VVs, our group has gained numerous insights into best practices. This communication shares these experiences with the medical community to support patient care during this difficult time and beyond. We highlight that mastering the technological platform of choice, optimizing lighting, camera positioning, and "eye contact," being thoughtful and creative with the virtual eye examination, and ensuring good documenting and billing will make a successful and efficient VV. Moreover, we think these ideas will stimulate further VV creativity and expertise to be developed in ophthalmology and across medicine. This approach, holds promise for increasing its adoption after the crisis has passed.