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Automated refraction not only provides more data and possibly more precise subjective refractions; it saves wear and tear on the examiners back, arms and hands, a benefit that has not been lost on Dr. Bonilla-Warford. “The actual refraction is not significantly different other than it’s faster and more ergonomic because I don’t have to reach around and operate the lenses—I can do it from a seated position, which I think is significant,” he said.

The physical demands of performing a manual refraction have been well documented. For years, eyecare professionals have complained of chronic back pain from stooping over to reach the dials of the manual phoropter and forearm and hand pain from turning the dials. In fact, performing a manual refraction requires the examiner to be a contortionist of sorts.

The ergonomically designed VX55 Digital Refraction System from Visionix features a touch-screen interface that allows it to be controlled from a tablet.
One new system that offers an ergonomic design is the VX55 Digital Refraction System from Visionix. The unit also features efficient refraction management, an intuitive touch-screen interface, easy control of the vision tester directly from a tablet, and the ability to integrate with a variety of devices and EMR.

Automation of the refraction process has made it feasible for optometrists and ophthalmologists to delegate this clinical task to opticians and trained technicians, something Dr. Bonilla-Warford is looking into.

“I haven’t actually delegated the basics of refraction yet, but I know people who do and I think its a very reasonable thing to do, where the technician does the initial refraction and then I come in and give it my blessing, whereas I never would’ve even considered that before. But because the process is so controlled you can program the unit to have the refractionist perform in your style.”