Tips for integrating new technology

New equipment, devices, and software often come with a plethora of challenges. Here, two experts weigh in on how to set your practice up for success when implementing new diagnostic, surgical, or information technology.

“I find three things incredibly important when integrating technology in a larger medical group. First, avoid being too fiscally conservative and unwilling to pay for the appropriate amount of training with the technology company. Second, assign a small number of ‘super users’ to get trained who can become highly knowledgeable from focused training. Then, they can be involved in continued training after the technology company’s training is complete. Finally, use the ongoing services and training available from the tech companies to reassess how you are utilizing the product after it’s part of your work processes.”

— Traci Fritz, COE, executive director, Children’s Eye Care in Michigan

“We’ve come to accept rapid change of technology in daily life, but it can be more of a task when integrating new technology into a clinical or surgical practice. Rarely is new diagnostic equipment a ‘stand-alone’ device; more often than not, integration with EMR platforms, review software, and other third-party commercial software is a necessity, so you must take some considerations into account.

Diagnostic equipment, especially imaging devices, can create very large files. Access to those files from other sources (a review station software, third-party software, or EMR platform) is a necessity in most practices. This requires either network access to the original device’s database on a local hard drive or a network server. Prior to installing a device, ask the manufacturer to provide typical file sizes and network suggestions. Upgrading your practice’s network capabilities will greatly improve the speed of access to these large files as well.”

— Darrin A. Landry, CRA, OCT-C, ophthalmic consultant, Bryson Taylor, Inc., Saco, ME

InBrief

Haag-Streit Fundus Module 300 receives FDA approval

Haag-Streit’s Fundus Module 300 allows users to capture retinal images. The device attaches to the company’s slit lamps and enhances their functionality. Images taken with the Fundus Module 300 immediately transfer to its EyeSuite software.

Zeiss VisuMax software gets update to perform ReLEx SMILE

A software update for Zeiss’ VisuMax femtosecond laser system allows surgeons to perform the Zeiss ReLEx SMILE (SMall Incision Lenticule Extraction) procedure. The minimally invasive corneal refractive procedure can correct myopia in patients. The first U.S. SMILE procedure was performed in March.

Lucentis approved to treat DR

The FDA approved Genentech’s Lucentis for monthly treatment of patients with all forms of diabetic retinopathy. Lucentis was previously approved to treat DR in patients with diabetic macular edema and is now the first FDA-approved medicine to treat all DR forms.

Bausch + Lomb’s Stellaris Elite receives 510(k) clearance

The Bausch + Lomb Stellaris Elite phacoemulsification platform features Attune energy management system. Also, it offers Adaptive Fluidics, which aims to reduce IOP fluctuation and post-occlusion surge through variable infusion pressure in response to changes in vacuum levels.

Optovue releases AngioVueHD high-density OCTA

AngioVueHD, from Optovue, offers high image resolution for the 6 mm x 6 mm millimeter field-of-view. This aids in assessing pathologies characterized by large or oblique lesions, the company says.

Topcon obtains FDA clearance for biometer/corneal topographer

Topcon’s Aladdin HW3.0 combines a biometer with corneal topographer. The device takes all measurements in less than five seconds and provides accurate axial length, lens thickness, and central corneal thickness information, the company says.