5 Key Takeaways

• 1

  Remote optometry improves access and reduces wait times, but gaps in referrals and follow-up care persist, particularly in rural areas.

• 2

  Approximately 24% of U.S. counties lack eyecare providers, with rural areas facing significantly worse accessibility.

• 3

  Teleretinal exams reduced the median time to diabetic retinopathy screening from 158 days to 17 days, eliminating unnecessary specialty visits.

• 4

  Remote care requires closed-loop referral systems to ensure patients complete necessary follow-ups, as many referrals fail to reach their intended destinations.

• 5

  Standardizing clinical protocols and providing ongoing training for remote optometrists are essential for maintaining quality care and improving patient outcomes.