The Optometric Minute

The High-Tech, High-Touch Exam: Keep the Patient in Mind

February 11, 2015

Aaron Lech, OD, FAAO, of ClearVue Eye Care in Roseville, Calif., says that while new instrumentation can provide a high-tech, high-touch exam, the OD never should lose sight of the “human transaction” at the basis of the doctor-patient relationship. “Keep in mind the end user of this technology, the patient, and their perception of technology,” he advises. Reassure the patient when their eye health is normal, he says, rather than launching into an excited recitation of test results. Above all, in your presentation to patients, explain in relatable terms and show visually what is happening inside their eye. When technology is used properly, you capture the patient’s imagination with a WOW! factor.

ACTION POINTS

REASSURE THE PATIENT. Before presenting complex data, reassure the patient their eye health is normal.
USE SIMPLE TERMS. Present test findings in friendly, relatable language.
BE VISUAL. Use on-screen imagery from tests to capture the patient’s imagination with a WOW! factor.

Aaron Lech, OD, FAAO,, owns ClearVue Eye Care in Roseville Calif. To contact him: drlech@clearvue.org

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