Virtual Reality Visual Field Testing Reduces Visit Duration in a Neuro-Ophthalmology Clinic.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Neuro-ophthalmology clinics face challenges managing patient volume.
• Efficient diagnostic testing is crucial for optimizing patient flow and care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficiency of virtual reality visual field (VRVF) testing against standard Humphrey visual field (HVF) testing in a neuro-ophthalmology clinic.
• To assess the impact of technician learning curve on testing efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving two groups of patients undergoing either VRVF or HVF testing.
• Data collected at baseline and after six months to evaluate changes over time and account for the learning curve.
• Technician workup time and total clinic visit duration were recorded and analyzed.

Main Results:

• VRVF testing demonstrated significantly shorter technician workup times for follow-up visits at both baseline and six months compared to HVF.
• For new patient visits, workup times were similar at baseline but significantly reduced with VRVF at six months.
• The reduction in workup time at six months for new visits suggests a learning effect associated with VRVF.

Conclusions:

• VRVF testing enhances workflow efficiency in neuro-ophthalmology by reducing technician workup time for both new and follow-up visits.
• The consistent efficiency improvements highlight VRVF's potential to streamline clinic operations and manage high patient volumes effectively.