IbisVision, the leading developer of remote eyecare technology, has commenced a collaborative research programme with the University of Central Lancashire to help fine tune its processes for remote refractive eye tests, which will help the company in its ambition to offer eyecare to those around the world who face life-altering conditions because of a lack of access to optometry. 

The programme involves around 30 students across a broad range of ages and backgrounds who are currently studying to become optometrists or dispensing opticians and undertake the roles of clinicians and patients in the research, under the direct supervision of a registered optometrist. It is hoped that the students will benefit from a deeper understanding of the mechanics of refraction in the eyecare process, the study of which has retreated in recent years as technology has become more automated in this area. It is also hoped the output will lead to peer reviewed research that will contribute to understanding better how patients behave in remote consultations.

In return, the company hopes to smooth and augment its proprietary refractive eye test processes so as to make the remote procedure seamless and more accurate for users. One of the most significant areas of development is centred on identifying the most effective visual target for eye tests. IbisVision examinations use a simple Internet connection and computer screen, which can limit the procedure in comparison to the normal in-person eye test clinics, where space is readily available to test vision over greater focal lengths. The research programme is experimenting with different targets — from crosses to dot to icons – as well as the use of different visual backgrounds on the screen so as to relax the eyes and to encourage the patient to look further into the distance. The other key field of research centres on finding appropriate disposable facilitator lenses that will enable a successful eye test over the Internet.

IbisVision’s ultimate aim is to develop affordable, reliable remote eye test technology so as to allow those in poorer and less developed parts of the world to access the eyecare that many in the West take for granted. The technology can also be used for lower cost triage tests, which can help lower expenditure in large health delivery bodies such as the National Health Service. 

Commenting on the programme CEO Mark Roger said "We are building technology to tackle the extremely serious scourge of eye disease that occurs simply due to lack of resources or access – as a result, we need to engage with the ophthalmic community and in particular educational institutions to ensure our online tests can match the efficacy of those that take place in person. We’re very happy to be partnering with the University of Central Lancashire which has a proud tradition in educating optometrists who then go on to protect the eyesight of people all around the world. With a programme as important as ours we believe research and innovation will always be part of our ongoing activities, and we look forward to working with many more research and educational establishments to ensure a viable future for eyecare telemedicine."

About IbisVision

IbisVision is a Scottish-based technology company working in the optometry space providing accessible solutions to eyecare. As a cloud-based platform, IBISengage can be easily accessed online and hosts a suite of over 11 online eye exams including visual acuity, visual field and online refraction. Designed with the patient in mind, IBISengage provides a first class online testing experience, always linking the patient and the eye doctor in some capacity, anywhere and at any time.

About University of Central Lancashire

The University of Central Lancashire is an international, multi-campus university tracing its roots back to 1828 and leading the way in modern learning with vision programmes that are both accredited by the General Optical Council. Learn more on LinkedIn & Facebook.

For more information, contact:

Laura Hillhouse-Fleming, Head of Marketing, IbisVision – lhillhouse@ibisvision.co.uk