Eschenbach has launched a first-of-its-kind low vision assessment kit, Haus Call, allowing optometrists to conduct a low vision exam and a follow-up device assessment remotely.

The US manufacturer and distributer of vision-enhancing products said the new remote examination kit allows low vision optometrists to help their visually impaired patients who can’t make in-practice appointments due to health concerns, transportation issues or similar.

To conduct the exam, a diagnostic kit including tests for near acuity, distance acuity and contrast, together with an iPad pre-loaded with a web conferencing app, are sent to the patient. Using this technology, after the diagnostic exam is completed, the patient is then sent a trial kit with an assortment of optometrist-recommended low vision devices to meet their specific needs and visual goals.

Auckland-based low vision optometrist Naomi Meltzer said she found it an interesting concept for people in very remote locations but doesn’t believe video-link assessments would work in her practice. “I thought very carefully about doing consultations remotely during lockdown but decided against it. There is so much information required other than just what sized print a person can read on the eye chart. There is a lot of personal communication involved in a low vision assessment, which can be done via video link, but also a lot of observation of the environment - how the patient is functioning in their environment and their physical comfort, whether they can bend over a stand magnifier or how steady their hand is holding a handheld magnifier, and so on.”

Eschenbach’s Haus Call is currently only available in the US.