Abstract
Purpose:
This protocol was designed to assess the real-world workplace return-on-investment (ROI) of a computer-specific, vision-intervention benefit for presbyopes.
Methods:
We used a prospective, randomized, parallel-group comparison of workplace productivity (Total Call Time defined as average handle time (AHT) plus average call wait time (ACWT)), visual comfort and visual function of presbyopic call-center employees using computers wearing traditional bifocal lenses (D-25) or specially-designed computer eyewear, the Essilor Computer lens (ECL). We hypothesized that computer users wearing ECL (ECL-G) will demonstrate greater productivity and visual comfort than workers wearing traditional bifocal lenses (Bif-G). Estimated change in productivity enabled an assessment of ROI. Subjects were recruited from a call-center employee population (Claims or Member Services) answering phone calls from clients using approved recruitment protocols. All subjects underwent informed consent prior to enrollment and were permitted to withdraw from the study without penalty. IRB reviewed and approved all protocols.
Results:
All 51 subjects were 40 yrs of age or older (Mean, 51.1 yrs; range, 40 to 65), were primarily female (n= 49, 96%) and were myopic astigmats (means -1.32DS, -0.74DC) requiring an add (mean +1.72D). Data from a survey of visual status supported a hypothesis of greater visual comfort for ECL-G subjects (χ2 test, p=0.004). Comments received also suggested greater visual comfort in the ECL-G (16 vs. 36 negative comments, Bif-G). Production and claims quality indicators for the Bif-G vs. ECL-G for Claims Representatives (n=28) were not significantly different (F=1.70, 0.37, p=NS, NS). For Member Services (n=23), the TCT was longer by 8.4% and shorter in the test period in by 5.1% for the ECL-G; a change of 13.5% in the hypothesized direction (F=1.66, p=NS). A productivity change of 13.5% provides a $4,725 benefit per employee for a mean salary of $35,000. A vision benefit cost of $375 indicated ROI of 12.6/1.
Conclusions:
These data suggest a positive real-world workplace ROI of a computer-specific, vision-intervention benefit for presbyopes.
Keywords: 676 refraction •
653 presbyopia •
414 aging: visual performance