Getting Started with Virtual Reality Visual Field Exams

Healthcare professionals use visual field testing to diagnose and monitor conditions such as glaucoma, stroke, macular degeneration, and multiple sclerosis through automated perimetry. Traditional visual field tests subject the patient to an uncomfortable test, and they can be a challenge for patients who are elderly, disabled, or have other conditions. Through virtual visual field technology, new visual field machines can alleviate some of the stressors and inefficiencies with traditional visual field testing.

Virtual Field is one product that is changing the face of visual field testing. The lightweight headset is easy to use for both patients and providers, streamlines workflows, easily integrates into the EMR, and improves overall experience for the patient. Whether your business is a freestanding clinic, large university healthcare clinic, or government facility, the integration of Virtual Field can be seamless.

What Is a Virtual Reality Visual Field?

Virtual visual field technology tests patients' visual fields using virtual reality technology. As opposed to patients being tied to a large, bulky, immobile and often uncomfortable machine for testing, with virtual visual field technology, patients receive visual field testing via a portable visual field test. The patient will put on a virtual reality (VR) headset wherever they feel most comfortable. This space may be in a chair or remaining in their wheelchair if they have one. The virtual reality visual field test offers patients the same testing, just in a portable machine. There is also an opportunity for patients to test in a remote office location while their ophthalmologist is in a different physical location. The virtual visual field reports can easily be downloaded into the patient's EMR by the technician for review by the provider. VR visual fields support increased efficiency in testing for both providers and patients.

Virtual Field is the most established platform in virtual visual field technology, allowing optometry and ophthalmology providers to administer visual field tests to their patients in a reliable, comfortable, and unrestricted setting. The patient can wear the headset wherever they are comfortable while the provider administers the test. After completion, the results can quickly interface to the EMR and are available in various formats, such as PDF, JPG, or DICOM. From there, providers have open access to the results and can easily compare tests, diagnose, and treat patients. The virtual visual field machine offers the same testing as a standard visual field test, administering tests such as the Esterman visual field test, ptosis visual field test, central visual field testing, and more. 

How do I transition to a Virtual Reality Visual Field?

As you transition to the virtual visual field experience, it’s best practice to:

1. Run tests on your prior device and virtual visual field (VVF) side by side and compare the results. This is known as “rebaselining” the patient on the VVF instrument. By conducting tests side by side and meticulously comparing the results, providers calibrate and align the patient's baseline measurements between the two systems, establishing a reliable foundation for accurate ongoing assessments on the VVF.
2. Over the course of your patients' treatment journey, the utilization of progression analysis reports proves to be invaluable. These reports provide a dynamic overview of the patients' progress, showcasing any shifts or changes in their visual field patterns over time. By regularly consulting these reports, providers proactively identify trends, anomalies, or improvements that might otherwise go unnoticed. This data-driven approach aids in making informed decisions about the efficacy of the treatments and adjustments that may be needed, enhancing the overall patient care experience.
3. Focus on treating each patient as a unique individual and follow their specific outcomes over time. As you transition to the VVF and continue with patient care, it remains paramount to view each patient as a unique individual. Tailoring your approach to their specific needs, challenges, and responses to treatment fosters a personalized and effective process. 

The transition to the Virtual Reality Visual Field experience necessitates a strategic approach that involves comparative testing, utilization of progression analysis reports, individualized treatment, and dedicated tracking of patient-specific outcomes. By adhering to these best practices, you create a foundation for optimal patient care.

What type of time commitment is involved in setting up a Virtual Reality Visual Field?

Getting started with a Virtual Reality Visual Field is a smooth process that doesn't require a major time commitment. Here's a simple breakdown of the steps, all designed to make the transition easy and efficient:

1. You'll quickly get familiar with the Virtual Reality Visual Field experience. It's designed to be user-friendly, so understanding the hardware, software, and interface won't take much time. Plus, Virtual Field has a handy Quick Start Guide.
2. We provide a comprehensive onboarding call for you and your team. This short session ensures everyone is comfortable using the Virtual Field to its fullest potential, making the learning curve a breeze.
3. Introducing your patients to the Virtual Field is easy. Instructions provided through the headset guide the patient through the process, helping them understand what to expect.
4. Our team is readily available for any technical support or troubleshooting. You won't waste time grappling with issues—just reach out, and we'll assist you promptly.
5. As you and your team become pros at using the Virtual Reality Visual Field system, you'll naturally find ways to optimize the process. These minor adjustments won't take much time and will keep improving your experience.

Technology is rapidly changing healthcare; virtual visual field technology is just one response to this evolving landscape. Virtual Field offers the same benefits of typical visual field testing with the added benefits of patient comfort, space-spacing in tight clinics, and more. Virtual visual field technology is a safe, low cost and effective alternative to the outdated and bulky machinery that providers have historically used for visual field testing.

Virtual reality visual field testing makes testing for patients more convenient and comfortable while not jeopardizing the utility of results. Visit the Virtual Field website to learn more and sign up for a free 30-day trial and your onboarding call.