instrumental strategies
The Eye Chart of the Future
Finally, a stimulating eye chart.

By Gregg Ossip, O.D.

How often have you heard a patient say that because the eye chart hasn't changed he's memorized the TZVECL or EVOTZ line? Some of my patients can even pronounce these optometric words. Not that they really want to cheat on their eye exams. After all, there's no glory in that.

Computerization has become a big part of the world, including optometry. Despite this fact, many of us are still using conventional Snellen charts. But that might change because Haag-Streit's Stimuli computerized projection system could revolutionize your examination process. I'll explain how.

Haag-Streit's Stimuli computerized projection system.

Revealing the new technology

Haag-Streit's Stimuli automated projector eliminates the memory effect by bringing virtually unlimited charts to the patient in a random manner. The Stimuli includes an Apple iMac computer with a built-in monitor, Stimuli software and an incredibly cool wireless remote control, which controls the functions of the Stimuli. The buttons are arranged in a logical layout with the most commonly used buttons grouped in a circular pattern around a single button in the middle. The controller allows you to maintain eye contact with your patient while conducting the examination and selecting one of the Stimuli's features.

You can calibrate all Stimuli units for long, short or folded exam rooms. The Stimuli supports many types of acuity charts, optotypes, associated vision tests and fixation devices in a simple remote-controlled unit. The system offers more than 16 major features, including LogMar, Snellen and decimal units. There's even an internal CD player so you can play background music in your exam room.

Stimuli's many uses

The Stimuli automatically projects a multi-line acuity chart. Other charts include red/green, the ability to isolate letters and lines, Worth four dot tests on black or white backgrounds and astigmatic dial. You can easily change the letters of any particular Snellen line as often as you want throughout the eye examination.

The Stimuli is incredible for kids. In addition to standard pediatric animals and symbols, the Stimuli pediatric version is available with tumbling E's and C's. But even more exciting is the inclusion of cartoons with sound to make your younger patients truly focus on the eye chart while you're performing the pediatric exam.

The Haag-Streit automated projector will finally change the way we practice. Clear, crisp ever- changing charts will truly stimulate your patients, making the exam faster and more efficient both for the patient and you.

Don't miss out

This new projector can simplify the way you practice by allowing you to examine patients efficiently and conveniently. Try it out for yourself and see what the Haag-Streit Stimuli has to offer your practice. For information about this and other instruments, contact the company at (800) 627-6286 or www.haag-streit-usa.com.

DR. OSSIP IS IN GROUP PRACTICE IN INDIANAPOLIS. HE'S LECTURED EXTENSIVELY AND HAS WRITTEN NUMEROUS ARTICLES ON PRACTICE MANAGEMENT. YOU CAN REACH HIM BY E-MAIL AT GOSSIP2020@AOL.COM.