Evaluation of Patient Acceptance for Visual Field Testing with a Wearable Device

Abstract

Purpose : Current methods of ophthalmic exams can be cumbersome, time consuming, and a burden to administer. This study was performed to evaluate acceptability of a software application on a virtual reality/augmented reality headset. If users and patients accept such tools, they may ultimately lead to increased patient satisfaction and workflow.

Methods : A cross-sectional study was performed at a single center, 5-physician ophthalmology practice in the greater Washington D.C. area. The testing was administered by three technicians to 73 patients all of whom were surveyed. The survey included 18 questions, 13 of which used a Likert scale for answers (strongly disagree to strongly agree). Patient data was deidentified and no patients were excluded.

Results : Of patients who have had experience with other perimeters, 88.5% of patients preferred this device to the gold standard Humphrey Visual Field for visual field testing. 89% of patients would recommend this device to other people compared to 1% [1 individual] who would not [7 patients remained neutral]. 84.9% of patients voted the Heru personality was very helpful in guiding them on how to perform the test compared to 11% [8 patients] who voted somewhat helpful and 4.1% [3 patients] who voted neutral. 93% of appointments had a shorter duration as gauged by technicians due to the implementation of the device.

Conclusions : This device was well received by the patients, technicians, and physicians at this practice. By maximizing effectiveness with time management, ease of use, and consistent patient engagement this device meets many goals of healthcare delivery. Although there are limitations to this study, it is likely that this device will be useful in a variety of clinical settings including larger volume clinics, possibly even at home testing in the future.

This abstract was presented at the 2022 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Denver, CO, May 1-4, 2022, and virtually.