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Topcon News

How a Former Manual Phoropter Advocate Found Success with Digital Refraction

Talin Amadian, OD, took pride in her manual refractions. Before she purchased Woodley Optometry in Encino, California in 2020, she had been in medical settings where manual phoropters were primarily used. However, after bringing in the Topcon CV-5000S, a digital phoropter, she says it has transformed how she performs exams.

When Dr. Amadian purchased the practice, it was a Vision Source® practice, and she remained in the network because she appreciated the access to superior programs and pricing, as well as the support from her colleagues. She also set out to expand the practice's services, including dry eye management and specialty contact lenses. Upgrading her equipment was an essential component to providing top-tier care, she says.

Making the Leap to Digital Refraction

In 2023, Dr. Amadian chose the Topcon CV-5000S as her automated phoropter. She tried all the options on the market and talked with colleagues, ultimately choosing this one because of its ease of use. She wanted a system that she could integrate quickly into her practice. She quickly realized the significant improvement in the efficiency of her refractions. Prior to the CV-5000S, Dr. Amadian emphasized her meticulous approach to manual refractions. Despite taking notes, patient inquiries often led to distractions and transcription errors. This time-consuming process left limited time for building the personal connection she values with each patient.

Since introducing the CV-5000S, the workflow at Woodley Optometry has undergone a remarkable transformation. The digital phoropter has automated much of the refracting process, allowing Dr. Amadian and her team to preload patient data, including lensometry readings and autorefractor measurements, before she begins the exam. As a result, when Dr. Amadian sees a patient, everything is ready to go, allowing her to focus more on the patient.

One of the standout features of the CV-5000S is its ability to transfer the prescription directly into the electronic health record (EHR) with the push of a button. This not only reduces the risk of transcription errors but also speeds up the entire process, freeing Dr. Amadian from being "glued" to the manual phoropter. “It’s faster compared to manual,” she explains, “everything with a click goes directly to the EHR.”

The Wow Factor

Dr. Amadian desired a system that offered both ease of use and a wow factor for patients. Patients are impressed by the system's sleek, automated design and its ability to display images and subtle prescription differences simultaneously, eliminating the need to switch between lenses. Dr. Amadian says she is quite certain that it has increased her capture rate. “When patients ask if their prescription changed and they need new eyewear, I can say, ‘Instead of me telling you, let me show you.’ That makes them more confident about choosing new eyewear,” she says.

Patients trust that the technology provides them with accurate results, and Dr. Amadian reinforces that, saying that she can provide patients with the most customized prescriptions this way. Spending less time on the mechanics of the refraction also allows Dr. Amadian to spend more time talking about progressive lenses, UV protection, and second pairs for hobbies.

The Comfort Zone: Improving Ergonomics with the CV-5000S

The transition to a digital phoropter has been a great relief in terms of ergonomics. Dr. Amadian no longer experiences the physical strain associated with manual refracting, and she is able to delegate more tasks to her staff while ensuring that the prescription accuracy is maintained. This has enabled her to focus on her primary role of taking care of her patients. There’s another comfort that comes with the switch. She can go home earlier at the end of the day. “I’m not glued to the phoropter, so I can talk with the patients and finish much more of the charting while the patient is in the exam lane.”

The Bottom Line – Digital Refraction Leads to Improved Efficiency, Accuracy, and Patient Satisfaction

Dr. Amadian, once a staunch advocate of the manual phoropter because of the control she felt it gave her, has not looked back after switching to the CV-5000S. “I’ll never go back to a manual phoropter,” she says with conviction. The benefits in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and patient satisfaction have far outweighed her initial reservations. “This allows me to spend my time better. I’m not gathering data.”

Her advice to other eye care practitioners who may be hesitant about transitioning to a digital phoropter? “Don’t hesitate,” she says. “It’s a lot easier physically. It’s more streamlined, and the accuracy is unmatched. Your patients — and your practice — will thank you.”