EssilorLuxottica’s Generous Gift Transforms Remote Eye Care at RMU
The Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) Eye Institute was gifted a significant equipment donation from EssilorLuxottica of America, Inc. With the cutting-edge technology installed, the New York-based company is creating new possibilities for patient care at the RMU Eye Institute and enhancing the eye care education of RMU’s Doctor of Optometry (OD) students.
The state-of-the-art equipment, named CONNECT, opens doors for Doctor of Optometry students at RMU to acquire advanced skills in delivering remote eye care. Dr. Ball, Senior Director, Marketing and External Engagement, expressed the impact of CONNECT, highlighting its ability to provide remote exams efficiently. “I’ve personally given over 1500 remote care exams,” Dr. Ball said. “On any given day, I may cover five to six different locations, saving travel time, and enhancing my efficiency, while increasing access to eye care to individuals who otherwise may go without.”
CONNECT enables eye clinics to conduct exams through trained onsite technicians, with data transmitted to remote doctors for virtual examination and consultation via live video. “Our students will graduate with a thorough understanding of how to operate these systems and deliver excellent virtual eye care to patients,” Dr. Adam Hickenbothem, Dean of the RMU Doctor of Optometry program, said. “Technology like this will empower optometrists to serve a wider geographic area and people who may not have the ability to travel for eye care.”
“RMU is focused on staying at the forefront of healthcare innovations to provide students with a comprehensive education,” said RMU President Cameron K. Martin, PhD. “This generous donation allows our Optometry students to leave our institution ready to utilize the latest technology in eye care.”
EssilorLuxottica Eye Care’s initiative extends beyond equipment donation. They will also work with RMU’s OD program to secure scholarship opportunities for RMU students.
The equipment was installed at the end of 2023, marking the beginning of a new era in eye care education at RMU. Students will undergo comprehensive training, ensuring they harness the full potential of CONNECT throughout their education.
About EssilorLuxottica Eye Care
As a Center of Excellence within EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames, and sunglasses, Eye Care provides optometrists with the tools, resources, and technology needed to thrive in their careers and be vision care providers of choice. Over 1,600 affiliated optometrists & 3,700 opticians deliver exceptional patient experiences in 2,200+ practices across the US and Canada. In collaboration with retail brands, including LensCrafters, For Eyes, Target Optical, and Pearle Vision, Eye Care works to form the future of optometry.
