[NEWS] San Antonio-Based Eye Surgeons Go Virtual

In light of COVID-19 concerns, Parkhurst NuVision has expanded their telemedicine program to serve LASIK and cataract patients in a safe “virtual” setting.

The COVID-19 epidemic has disrupted our daily lives in many ways. One local vision correction practice has made a major shift to continue serving patients in a safe and practical way – from within their own homes.

“Modern technology affords us many opportunities to improve our patients’ lives,” says Greg Parkhurst, MD, founder of Parkhurst NuVision. “Through the advanced procedures we offer, and also the ways we are able to communicate with our patients.” The latest communication breakthrough introduced by Parkhurst NuVision – Telemedicine.

Earlier this year, Parkhurst NuVision collaborated with Carl Zeiss Meditec of Germany to launch one of the nation’s first Telemedicine Programs for vision correction.

“The program has been so successful, we thought, why not extend this option to all our patients?” Parkhurst said. “This is particularly useful to optometric physicians who refer patients for LASIK or cataract consultations. We are still able to connect with those patients and begin the process, all from the convenience of their own homes.”

Since social distancing plays a vital role in flattening the curve and preventing the spread of COVID-19, Parkhurst NuVision has shifted many of their in-person appointments to virtual consultations through their telemedicine program.

“So many patients who are considering LASIK or cataract surgery still want to start or continue care if possible,” Parkhurst explains. “Through our telemedicine program, patients can do this in a safe environment, with minimal disruption.”

Patients can book virtual consultations at ParkhurstNuVision.com, to meet with a Parkhurst NuVision doctor using a FaceTime-like video chat format. “The virtual consultations are a quick and convenient way to help patients understand their vision correction options,” says Bobby Saenz, OD, Clinic Director at Parkhurst NuVision.

“All we need is a patient’s vision prescription, which is printed on their box of contacts,” Saenz said. “We also go through a brief medical history questionnaire, and with this information, we can determine if a patient likely qualifies for treatment. Then we can make a clear plan for the patient’s next steps in the treatment process.”

“We have a responsibility to our patients, our team and our community to serve everyone in a safe, healthy manner,” Parkhurst said. “Our telemedicine program is the ideal way to reach this goal.”

 

Be sure to talk to one of our doctors about not only the benefits of vision correction, but also any risks of vision correction that may pertain to your individual needs and circumstances.