How to Qualify For CE Credit:

  • ✅ (1) Listen to each CE episode (0.50hr) - podcasts are available on all major podcast providers for free

  • ✅ (2) Take the quiz by clicking on the respective link for the episode you listened to (Require 70% Passing)

  • ✅ (3) Earn 0.5 hr of cope-accredited CE per episode listened to & quiz taken!

  • ✅ (4) Your 📄 CE Certificate  and CE QR Code will be given instantly if you pass at least 70%. 

  • ✅ (5) For instant credit (Required OE Mobile App), please scan QR Code via OE TRACKER Mobile App (FREE or $25 Annual, NOT YOUR CAMERA)

  • ✅ (6) Otherwise, please self-submit CE Certificate to your OE Tracker Mobile Tracker and keep certificate for your personal records 

  • ⚠️ To see the Max Hours Allowed for Online/Asynchronous for your State-specific requirements, please visit CE State Requirement

    ⚠️  Passing grade of 70% needed for CE Approval, Unlimited Retakes. Please note that your information will be submitted to ARBO for audit control/record-keeping. 

Frequently Asked CE Questions

Asynchronous or distance learning.  To see the Max Hours Allowed for Online/Asynchronous for your State-specific requirements, please visit CE State Requirement

70% is required for passing. As long as you take the quiz by clicking on the respective link for the episode you listened, majority of people will pass. 

⚠️   Unlimited Retakes. Please note that your information will be submitted to ARBO for audit control/record-keeping. 

Nope, as with all other education we provide, it is 100% free!

For majority of the episodes, there are sponsors that offer commercial support, allowing us to do this for free to all doctors! 

Your 📄 CE Certificate  and CE QR Code will be given instantly if you pass at least 70%. 

For instant credit (Required OE Mobile App), please scan QR Code via OE TRACKER Mobile App (FREE or $25 Annual, NOT YOUR CAMERA)

70% Passing Grade Copy

Enhancing Patient Care with Anterior Segment Technology

Dr. Chris Lopez discusses the advancements in posterior segment technology, focusing on four key areas: ERG (Electroretinography), extended color vision, virtual visual field testing, and lasers in optometry. ERG, now a handheld device, assesses retinal function objectively, with protocols like DRA for diabetic retinopathy. Extended color vision tests, quick and subjective, aid in retinal and optic nerve function assessment. Virtual visual fields, performed via headsets, offer convenience and are comparable to traditional tests. Lasers, including YAG capsulotomy, LPI, and SLT, are increasingly used by optometrists, especially in rural areas, despite low ROI, emphasizing comprehensive patient care. 

Learning Objectives

  • [ ] Consider implementing ERG testing into the practice to objectively assess retinal and optic nerve function for conditions like diabetic retinopathy.
  • [ ] Evaluate extended color vision testing for tracking progress in patients with retinal conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. 
  • [ ] Assess virtual visual field devices for testing patients with limited mobility, like those in wheelchairs. They are convenient and less physically demanding than traditional devices. 
  • [ ] Obtain proper training before implementing laser procedures like YAG capsulotomy, LPI, and SLT. Have standard protocols and patient materials ready

Outline 

Enhancing Patient Care with Posterior Segment Technology 

  • Chris introduces the podcast episode titled "Enhancing Patient Care with Posterior Segment Technology," focusing on four topics: ERG, extended color vision, virtual visual field testing, and lasers in optometry. 
  • ERG (Electroretinography) is described as a modern, handheld device that assesses retinal and optic nerve function, providing quick, objective results with a small footprint. 
  • The benefits of modern ERG include its quickness, objectivity, ease of use, and detailed reports, which are crucial for managing retinal diseases like diabetic retinopathy. 
  • ERG protocols include the DRA (Diabetic Retinopathy Assessment), PHNR (Photopic Negative Response), and Flicker 16, each measuring different aspects of retinal function. 

Extended Color Vision Testing 

  • Extended color vision testing is introduced as a method to assess cone receptors, which are responsible for color vision, and can indicate cone damage associated with retinal disorders or optic neuropathies. 
  • The test is quick, subjective, and functional, providing easy-to-interpret reports similar to OCTs, with red, yellow, green indicators for severity. 
  • Applications for extended color vision testing include retinopathy, posterior segment disease, and glaucoma, where color deficiencies are common. 

Virtual Visual Field Testing 

  • Virtual visual field testing is highlighted as a rapidly advancing technology, with headset devices performing visual fields and other tests, such as extended color vision. 
  • The benefits of virtual visual fields include convenience for patients, especially those with physical limitations, and the ability to perform tests in various settings, including wheelchairs. 
  • The technology is also useful for hydroxychloroquine testing, ptosis, and driver's license testing, with applications expanding to include binocular vision tests. 
  • Virtual visual fields are quick, easy to use, and provide comparable results to traditional visual field tests, with a smaller footprint and patient appeal. 

Lasers in Optometry

  • Chris discusses the increasing role of lasers in optometry due to the aging population and the need for more surgeons, with optometrists taking on more laser procedures. 
  • The three main laser procedures are YAG capsulotomy, LPI (Laser Peripheral Iridotomy), and SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty), each with different settings and energy levels. 
  • Implementing lasers in a practice requires comfort in performing procedures, standard operating protocols, patient education, and trained staff. 
  • The footprint of laser devices is similar to a slit lamp
70% Passing Grade Copy

Enhancing Patient Care with Anterior Segment Technology

Dr. Chris Lopez discusses the integration of anterior segment technology in optometry to enhance patient care. Key technologies include low-level light therapy (LLLT), which has anti-inflammatory properties and improves dry eye symptoms, and intense pulse light (IPL), which reduces inflammatory mediators and improves meibomian gland function. Zest, a product by Zocular, uses okra polysaccharide technology to remove Demodex mites, providing immediate clinical improvement. Anterior segment cameras aid in disease management by improving patient compliance and buy-in for advanced treatments. These technologies offer significant ROI and are often used as cash-pay services. 

Action Items 

  • [ ] Consider implementing low level light therapy in your practice. 
  • [ ] Consider implementing IPL in your practice. 
  • [ ] Consider implementing zest in your practice to treat Demodex and blepharitis. ● [ ] Consider obtaining an anterior segment camera to improve patient buy-in and compliance.

Outline 

Introduction to Anterior Segment Technology in Eye Care 

  • Dr. Chris Lopez introduces the lecture on enhancing patient care with anterior segment technology. 
  • The lecture aims to explore technological advancements in eye care, focusing on anterior segment diseases. 
  • Objectives include understanding the benefits and challenges of incorporating technology into optometric practice. 
  • The focus is on anterior segment, particularly ocular surface disease. NPR Strategy for Technology Integration 
  • Dr. Lopez introduces the NPR strategy: N for nerd (clinical information), P for practical (implementation), and R for revenue (financial impact). 
  • Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is introduced as the first technology to be discussed. ● LLLT has been used in dermatology for anti-inflammatory and aesthetic purposes and is now used in eye care. 
  • The mechanism of action involves activating mitochondria to increase ATP, leading to anti-inflammatory effects. 

Benefits and Applications of Low Level Light Therapy 

  • LLLT has shown impressive results in dry eye disease management. 
  • It is non-invasive, painless, and safe, with a spa-like experience for patients. ● LLLT is repeatable, with sessions separated by a few days. 
  • The financial impact varies, but most offices use it as a cash pay offering with a good ROI. 

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Technology 

  • IPL is the second technology discussed, commonly used in eye care and other medical fields. 
  • IPL works by absorbing light to destroy blood vessels, reducing inflammatory mediators. ● It has anti-inflammatory properties and may have antibacterial effects, reducing Demodex load. 
  • IPL is safe, repeatable, and effective for dry eye disease, blepharitis, and rosacea. Implementation and Financial Impact of IPL
  • IPL is usually performed by doctors but can be delegated to staff or technicians. ● The procedure involves pre and post-procedure steps, with treatments separated by three to four weeks. 
  • IPL devices are moderately sized and require some office space. 
  • Most offices use IPL as a cash pay offering, with a good ROI despite the high cost of devices. 

Demodex Management with Zest Technology 

  • Demodex is an underdiagnosed condition, now receiving more attention due to its impact on dry eye disease. 
  • Zest, a product by Zocular, uses patented okra polysaccharide technology to remove Demodex load. 
  • Zest provides immediate clinical improvement and is safe, repeatable, and non-invasive. ● It is effective for blepharitis, Demodex, dry eye disease, and acne. 

Implementation and Financial Aspects of Zest 

  • Zest is usually performed by doctors but can be delegated to staff. 
  • The procedure takes five to ten minutes and involves a pre-procedure prep. ● Zest kits are affordable and easy to use, with a minimal footprint. 
  • Most offices charge patients out of pocket, avoiding insurance claims and ensuring a good ROI. 

Anterior Segment Camera Technology 

  • Anterior segment cameras are basic but underutilized, with various offerings available. ● The cameras help in disease management by providing visual evidence to patients. ● They improve buy-in for advanced treatment options and enhance patient compliance. ● Anterior segment cameras are easy to use, with a minimal footprint and a CPT code for reimbursement. 

Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

● Dr. Lopez emphasizes the rapid advancement of technology in optometry. ● The lecture aims to highlight financially feasible technologies to improve patient care.