instrumental strategies
A Leg Up On Patient Education
This software helps you inform patients and
improve efficiency.
ROBERT
BROOKS, O.D.
One
of the most important things we do is educate patients about their ocular health
as well as the benefits of the materials we prescribe. This can be a very time-consuming
process, but new technology helps tremendously. Ocutouch 360 illustration software
from Trevi Technology not only educates, but also allows me to delegate tasks to
further improve office efficiency.
|
|
|
Ocutouch
360 COMPATIBILITY:
Intel Pentium III (800 Mhz) Processor, Windows 2000 or XP; 64MB of RAM, 200MB of
disc space; and 1 USB port
NUMBER OF PROGRAMS:
Seven
IMAGES: Animated medical illustrations
PRICE: $1,195.
|
Getting the message across
The software features seven programs, including
a looped waiting room presentation, educational narratives for the exam and consult
rooms, a complete anatomy of the eye, an interactive, comprehensive contact lens
trainer, an optical dispensary assistant and prepared seminar presentations to use
in any area of the office. In the exam room, for instance, after my technicians
finish the patients' work-up and review their ocular history, they ask if the patient
would like to view an Ocutouch animated narrative explaining their ocular condition
or a product that we may have discussed during pre-testing.
Each program uses animated medical
illustrations. I run the software on a PC with a 19" flat-screen monitor in the
exam room. This occupies the wait the patient has while I am with another patient.
Once I finish reviewing my findings
with the patient, the technicians play illustrations again, these based on that
day's exam results.
Improve profitability
This program has all the bells and whistles to
assist in selling add-ons and premium lenses. When I prescribe glasses, I review
my findings with both the patient and the optician. The optician can then use the
software program to reinforce the features and benefits of the prescription, such
as UV-protection, scratch-resistant or antireflective coatings, polarized or progressive
lenses or tints. The software demonstrates the actual effects of lens coatings,
for example, in nine common lifestyle situations such as outdoors, or nighttime
driving — whatever is relevant to the patient. This helps eliminate sticker
shock because the patient can focus on the benefits of the lens enhancements, not
just the cost.
Covering all your bases
One of my favorite modules is the waiting room
module, which has 23 animated narratives that explain 13 eye care subjects such
as cataracts, glaucoma or refractive surgery. It also features demonstrations of
10 lens upgrades, tints and coatings. I can even include my own multimedia commercial
about my practice.
These features make it a great
educational tool and stimulate patients' interest while they wait for their appointments
with me. I've found that Ocutouch is a great investment that has paid for itself.
Not only does it enhance your image as a doctor, it tremendously benefits the patient.
DR. BROOKS PRACTICES
IN GREENUP, KY. HE IS VICE PRESIDENT OF THE KENTUCKY
BOARD OF OPTOMETRIC EXAMINERS AND PAST PRESIDENT
OF THE KENTUCKY OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION. CONTACT
HIM AT DRRBROOKS@HOTMAIL.COM.
Optometric Management, Issue: July 2006