Teleoptometry: State of the art and future perspectives

Teleoptometry is a branch of telehealth that makes it possible to provide optometric assistance even when the operator and patient cannot meet in person. It became dramatically popular throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. In the last years, several online platforms have been proposed, expanding what optometrists can do remotely. Important areas of future developing of teleoptometry are capture and archive images to be shared with other eye care practitioners for further reference and follow-up via virtual meetings or dedicated apps. Teleoptometry is likely to continue to expand its role not only for the management of ocular diseases in rural areas, but also for comprehensive eye examinations. We feel that teleoptometry can be a valuable support of customary in-person services, still we definitely expect that it cannot replace them.