Dr. Christenson (far right as you look at photo) testing out the practice’s dyslexia screener. He says that AEG Vision is always open to exploring the addition of new technologies in their doctors’ offices.
Getting support to add technology for enhanced patient care
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By Griffin Christenson, OD
March 5, 2025
There are times when you experience professional changes that are truly transformative.
Joining Christenson Vision Care as an associate in February 2022 marked a significant turning point in my career. As a fresh graduate from optometry school in 2021, I was eager to dive into the field.
Another monumental point in my career progression occurred when our practice joined AEG Vision (AEG).
The decision to integrate our practice with AEG was made by the practice owners, and I wholeheartedly supported it. This strategic move positions us to continue serving our patients in Hudson, Wisconsin, for many years to come.
Among the reasons it positions us so well are the technological advancements AEG helps us add to our office.
Advancements in Technology
Before becoming part of AEG, our practice already utilized various technologies to enhance patient care. However, the integration brought significant advancements, including the addition of a ZEISS Humphrey visual field and an Optos widefield camera. These tools elevated our diagnostic capabilities and improved the overall patient experience.
Embracing AI-Powered Solutions
One of the most exciting developments in our office is the implementation of an AI-powered digital dyslexia screening test, known as the DESD.
Originally created by John Griffin, OD, MSed, my father, Garth Christenson, OD, MSed, and Howard Walton, OD, MS, we have now adapted this tool into a digital format, incorporating modern AI advancements like speech recognition and a proprietary algorithm for phoneme segmentation.
This allows the test to operate seamlessly on computers and mobile devices, complete with automated scoring.
Early Detection and Intervention
The digital dyslexia screening test enables early detection of dyslexia, allowing for timely intervention and targeted resources. Early identification is crucial; individuals with dyslexia often face unique challenges, but can thrive with the right support. My dream is to make this test widely available in the near future.
Enhancing Efficiency and Profitability
The automated nature of the dyslexia test minimizes the need for extensive staff training and reduces the time required for administering and scoring assessments. This efficiency allows our team to focus on conducting therapy sessions and other critical patient care activities, ultimately enhancing our operational productivity.
Telehealth Technology in Our Practice
During the pandemic, we implemented telehealth solutions through Vision Science Labs (VSL). This platform combines binocular vision activities with video conferencing capabilities, ensuring continuity of care. While we now prioritize in-person therapy, I believe telehealth presents a promising opportunity for AEG to expand vision care services, especially in rural areas.
In Wisconsin, many rural practices face challenges in providing consistent care. Telehealth solutions, like DigitalOptometrics, allow us to supplement in-person visits with remote consultations, increasing access to care for patients in under-served areas.
Improving Access to Treatment
Telehealth technology significantly improves access to treatment for conditions like convergence insufficiency. It allows patients to receive appropriate therapy even if they are not near a physical office.
Additionally, it promotes robust home training that can be tracked by a doctor after graduation from a vision therapy program.
Expanding Our Reach
Telehealth services enable our organization to extend care to a broader patient base. For our practice, this technology has supported continuous care delivery, even for patients who have relocated, thereby increasing both access and revenue opportunities.
AEG’s Commitment to Technological Advancement
AEG consistently demonstrates a willingness to invest in technology that enhances patient care and supports our clinical practices. They are receptive to physician feedback and provide critical resources, from establishing centers of excellence in dry eye care to facilitating scope-of-practice advances.
Under the Optometric Leadership and Advisory Council (OLAC), we have a dedicated committee for vetting and promoting new devices within the organization.
Exploring Future Technologies
During my curriculum for pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science at Georgia Tech, I worked on an exciting AI project analyzing retinal images. This project utilized “self-supervised learning” to understand normal retinal patterns from unlabeled images, allowing for the detection of a wider range of eye conditions with minimal labeled examples.
For organizations like AEG with access to extensive retinal imaging data, this approach could significantly enhance early detection of eye diseases.
The Potential of RETeval
I am also exploring the RETeval device from LKC, which provides a diabetic risk score based on the function of retinal cells.
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By detecting functional stress, we can anticipate structural damage and modify treatment accordingly. This technology aligns with AEG’s commitment to innovation and improving patient care.
AEG Visions Culture of Innovation
AEG fosters a culture of innovation and adaptability, which is crucial for staff members eager to embrace change. The organization prioritizes patient care, ensuring that we have the tools necessary to provide the best possible service.
The Value of Community and Support
Being part of AEG provides me with a sense of security for the future as an associate. I can focus on patient care and innovation without the burden of business management. The opportunity to connect with experienced colleagues is invaluable, and I look forward to what lies ahead.
Conclusion: A Transformative Organization to Join
My journey with AEG has been transformative, both personally and professionally.
The integration of advanced technologies and a supportive community has allowed me to focus on what truly matters: providing exceptional care to my patients.
I am excited to see what the future holds for Christenson Vision Care and the AEG Vision network!
Griffin Christenson, OD, is an associate with Christenson Vision Care, now a part of AEG Vision. To contact him: ggchristenson@eyecarespecialtieswi.com
