Teleoptometry Champion: Improving Access to Eye Care in Coachella Valley
Bridging the eye care gap in the Coachella Valley
Optometrist Athena Brasfield is leading a quiet revolution in the heart of Southern California’s Coachella Valley, where access to eye care is often limited. Recently honored as “Woman of the Year” for her congressional district, Dr. Brasfield’s Coachella Valley Optometry is a model for providing high-quality, accessible eye care to underserved populations.
Coachella Valley Optometry is a beacon of hope in a region facing a significant eye care provider shortage. By serving a primarily Medicaid and Medi-Cal patient base, she ensures that those most in need have access to essential vision services. With two thriving locations and a third on the way, Dr. Brasfield is proving that a commitment to inclusivity and innovative technology can transform lives and drive successful business growth.
Topcon RDx® and Harmony® are the technological backbones of her mission-driven practice
Embracing innovative technology is at the core of Dr. Brasfield’s success.
Topcon RDx is a remote comprehensive eye exam platform allowing optometrists to deliver quality eye exams from virtually anywhere. Topcon Harmony is a clinical data management platform that organizes all your clinical data within a single screen. These innovative technologies enable her team to organize data and conduct remote eye exams efficiently and accurately, reaching patients who might otherwise struggle to access care due to distance, mobility issues, or other barriers.
- Expanding reach: RDx extends Dr. Brasfield’s reach beyond her physical clinic walls, allowing her to serve patients in remote areas of the Coachella Valley.
- Enhanced efficiency: The Harmomy platform streamlines the exam process, allowing her team to see more patients without sacrificing quality of care.
- Improved patient experience: Comprehensive teleoptometry provides patients with a convenient, accessible way to prioritize their eye health.
In Dr. Brasfield’s own words
“As a practitioner committed to making eye care accessible to all, I believe that embracing innovative technologies like RDx + Harmony is crucial for the future of our field. By harnessing the power of remote care, we can break down barriers to access and ensure that everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances, receives the vision care they need. My vision for the future is one where remote eye care becomes seamlessly integrated into our healthcare system, empowering patients and practitioners alike to prioritize eye health and wellness.”
How does teleoptometry work with RDx and Harmony?
RDx teleoptometry simplifies remote comprehensive eye exams. Here’s how it works:
- Pre-exam tests: A technician at your office conducts regular pre-test exams on the patient. RDx provides a clear visual of the patient’s progress throughout the exam.
- Remote connection: Once the patient is ready, the system notifies you, allowing you to connect remotely.
- Access to pre-test data: RDx provides access to all pre-test results and the patient’s exam history, facilitating personalized care.
- Remote control of phoropter: The CV-5000S digital phoropter, controlled remotely through RDx’s telehealth platform, ensures accurate and efficient refractions.
- Real-time video conferencing: Foster effective communication with your staff and patients through integrated video conferencing while maintaining complete control over your practice’s devices.
With RDx teleoptometry, you can provide comprehensive eye care from anywhere, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for both you and your patients.
A vision for the future of eye care
Dr. Brasfield’s success with Topcon RDx and Harmony isn’t just a local story—it’s a testament to the transformative power of teleoptometry. As more and more practitioners embrace this technology, we can expect to see:
- Increased access to care: Particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Reduced health disparities: By closing the gap in eye care access for vulnerable populations.
- More efficient practices: Allowing optometrists to focus on providing the highest quality care.
Are you ready to transform your practice and expand your reach like Dr. Brasfield? Contact your local Topcon Healthcare representative today to learn more about how RDx and Harmony can empower you to make a difference in your community.
Financial relationships may exist between Topcon and contributors.