AAOpt 2025: Thomas Wong, OD, discusses the role of optometric telehealth

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Thomas Wong, OD, an associate clinical professor at the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry and director of new technologies, discussed the evolving landscape of telehealth in eye care. He explored the potential and challenges of telehealth in transforming patient co-management practices.

Wong explained that telehealth has the capacity to significantly change how optometrists and other practitioners collaborate. The effectiveness depends on electronic infrastructure, including video consultations, image sharing, and secure communication platforms. He highlighted critical challenges such as maintaining HIPAA compliance, ensuring DICOM compatibility, and addressing reimbursement complexities. The interview revealed that telehealth remained largely underutilized in eye care.

Drawing from his experience, Wong believes telehealth represents a logical extension of existing communication technologies. He views it as a promising approach that could benefit patients if implemented responsibly, though he acknowledged the field was still in its early stages.

Technological integration emerged as a key theme. Wong stressed the importance of connecting various systems, noting the difficulties in compatibility between different technological platforms. He compared these challenges to communication barriers between Apple and Microsoft ecosystems, emphasizing the need for more seamless integration. Patient-centricity was another crucial aspect of Wong's perspective. He advocated for embracing telehealth and artificial intelligence as opportunities to improve patient care, rather than viewing them as threats to employment. Wong recommended comprehensive staff training and a collaborative approach to implementing new technologies.