By Ewen McRae
A Melton optometrist says new technology is helping to dramatically reduce the number of people suffering eye diseases locally.
Specsavers Melton optometrist and co-owner Surdeep Boparai has introduced 3D eye scanning as part of standard eye tests. She is hoping the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology will continue to have a positive impact in the community.
“In the past three months, since we’ve had OCT, we have doubled our detections for patients with glaucoma and diabetic eye disease,” Ms Boparai said.
“By detecting diseases in their earliest stages, we’re able to work collaboratively with our patients and their ophthalmologist to prevent vision loss and help them see better for longer.”
The clinic has invested $125,000 in the new technology and expects to test more than 15,000 Melton patients over 12 months.
The OCT technology takes a series of 3D scans of the back of the eye, including the optic nerve, retina and macula. It provides optometrists with enhanced diagnostic data leading to more accurate detection of vision-threatening eye diseases including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.
“The OCT scan allows me to see the granular structures of the eye so that I can better identify potential abnormalities and detect eye diseases in their earliest stages which is incredibly exciting,” Ms Boparai said. “Ultimately it can help prevent patients from losing their sight.”
