Let's be honest - handing patients a paper amsler grid and hoping they remember to use it (correctly, at the right distance, and regularly) is about as effective as expecting patients to remember the names of their medications. Enter, Wise Eyes! Wise Eyes is an app that uses a digital amsler grid AND static noise which allows for enhanced distortion detection. This is a novel approach shown to enhance the detection of metamorphosia that hasn't been used in any existing tool so far.

I got the idea when I was attending an Academy lecture about macular degeneration and how it is monitored. Amsler grid was brought up as an antiquated tool that somehow is still hanging on from 1948. The lecture emphasized the need for a better, more accurate, and more accessible home monitoring solution.

Despite a few digital adaptations over the years, most apps simply digitize the same old grid. There are the prescribed FDA approved home monitoring devices. While effective, these devices are expensive, require a prescription, and aren’t always available. As a result, patients fall back on the crumpled amsler you handed them. Let’s face it, if the Amsler grid isn’t a coaster or bookmark by now, it’s probably stuck between the seats of their car. Since Wise Eyes is on their phone or iPad, it is always a tap away. And we all know, - patients always have their phone.

Why it works:

Consistent Testing Distance. The iPhone maintains a consistent testing distance. Let’s face it, “reading distance” is not a reliable unit of measurement and often not repeatable.

Layering of defects. Patients mark defects directly on the screen, and the app tracks changes over time. Even small increases in the defect are detected.

Reminders. Patients can set a daily reminder.

Accessibility. Who doesn’t have their phone on them? No need for a prescription or having a permanent ugly fixture on one’s dining room table.

Affordable. Just the cost of the app. Less than the cost of lunch today!

Why it works for ODs:

It saves chair time! Just hand out a card with a QR code and let the app do the rest. The app includes clear, step -by-step instructions and links to a dedicated website where patients can access additional resources. Your patients come back with visual data instead of vague descriptions like “it’s a little wavy sometimes.”

Early Detection! Instead of the awkward “why didn't you call us sooner” conversation, if the patient notices new or worsening defects using the Wise Eyes app, the directions state to reach out to their eyecare professional. This can mean the difference between preserving vision and permanent loss.

Thanks for your time! If any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can reach us at hello@wiseeyesapp.com. Visit our website at WiseEyesApp.com.