CHICAGO—Visibly, a health care technology company for the eyecare industry, has launched a new platform feature called Visibly Verification, designed to simplify the contact lens prescription verification process and automating the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA) compliance process, according to an announcement from the company. Visibly Verification continues the expansion of the company’s existing product portfolio, which includes the first FDA-cleared visual acuity test, real-time ECP video consultations and remote vision consultations, the company said. Earlier this year, VMAIL reported on the launch of real-time video visits between optometrists and patients following Visibly's merger with Eyecare Live.

In May, VMAIL also reported on Visibly’s merger with Lensabl, a move that would give Visibly's customers access to additional retail resources to reach another segment of the market.

This new merger will help navigate the complex landscape of regulations surrounding contact lens sales that can often prove challenging for both sellers and consumers alike, the company stated. Contact lenses are classified as a medical device in the United States and can only be purchased with a valid prescription from a qualified eyecare professional, according to the announcement. While federal law allows contact lens retailers to request prescription verification directly from a prescriber, the intricacies and strict guidelines governing this process can present significant hurdles, the company said.

“With the development and launch of this compliant prescription verification feature, our platform will help eyecare providers, national retailers, and other contact lens retailers eliminate the complexities and compliance concerns associated with prescription verification,” said Visibly COO Paul Foley. “Our mission to expand vision care access nationwide starts with compliant and convenient access to a patient's prescription.”

The Visibly Verification platform offers several key features, including automated verification methods such as email, fax or calls, in line with FTC regulations, to ensure contact lens sales are in accordance with a doctor's prescription. It also allows for FTC-compliant recording and recordkeeping of verification calls, and automatic creation of FTC-compliant verification logs and elimination of manual recordkeeping.

With the new platform, expert staff is available to handle unusual cases, ensure thorough compliance, and help relieve unnecessary burdens on contact lens retailers.

The company said it is proud to continue making strides in revolutionizing access to vision care services online, adding this launch is made possible through the recent acquisition of technology and key team members from Lensio. This move, the company said, strengthens Visibly’s position as a leader in software solutions for the eyecare industry.