3D printing sounds like a concept from a sci-fi movie or an Isaac Asimov novel. It involves creating a physical, three-dimensional object from a digital file. The technology has been used for some time in niche markets, generally for prototyping. However, new breakthroughs are propelling 3D printing into the mainstream, and the technology is poised to cause serious disruptions in manufacturing and healthcare. A recent PricewaterhouseCoopers survey of US manufacturers revealed that two out of three companies have already begun adopting 3D printing, from experimenting with the technology to usin ..read more

Healthcare in the United States is a constantly evolving landscape, and it’s important for those operating within the space to stay aware of the latest changes, including eye care specialty professionals. Updates to the Affordable Care Act and changes to the 2017 Medicare Fee Schedule can have a tremendous impact on the bottom line of practices. The good news is that some of the recent modifications represent a win for the ophthalmology field. ACA plans sold on the healthcare exchange are not currently required to offer vision care for adults. However, pediatric vision benefits remain part of ..read more

Though it has been nearly four months since Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico, the effects continue to devastate the medical industry both on the island and the mainland. The power grid on the island remains mostly inoperable, leaving Puerto Rico’s many medical equipment manufacturing plants unable to operate. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico typically produces about $40 billion worth of pharmaceuticals each year. This amounts to more pharmaceutical production than any one of the 50 states, any other U.S. terri ..read more

The Affordable Care Act remains a major piece of legislation with effects that reverberate across the entire healthcare ecosystem, including eye care specialties. Both the ACA and Medicare wield great influence on patient care and how practices do business. While the previous blog centered on the changes to the 2017 Medicare Fee Schedule, this piece attempts to reveal what the eye care industry may encounter in the future because of the ACA. Vision care for adults is currently not required for ACA plans sold on the healthcare exchange. This can result in sticker shock as patients who were form ..read more

Summer is finally here, which means lots of hiking, swimming, beachgoing, and other fun outdoor activities. While everyone should enjoy the season’s thrills and opportunities for relaxation, it is important to not forget about eye safety. During this time of year, the level of damaging ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is at least three times higher than during the winter. Safeguard the health of your eyes by wearing a high-quality pair of sunglasses that offers 100% UVA and UVB protection. Sunglasses are more than just a stylish fashion accessory. Proper sunglasses are designed to shield yo ..read more

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Whenever a purchase is made, the buyer expects that the seller will be available for questions and be able to provide some level of product insight. The simple ‘customer service’ dynamic can be the difference between a below average experience, and something fantastic. That’s why we strive to make your interactions with Accutome as helpful and professional as possible. Revered psychologist Angela Duckworth once remarked, “Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.” We agree. After 40 years of serving the Ophthalmological community, we have developed a deep appreciation for the importance of genu ..read more

Accutome is an industry leader in ophthalmic diagnostic equipment, now entering its fourth decade in business. The company offers a broad range of products, while fostering a culture of openness, integrity, and accountability. Accutome is committed to growing its brand through superior customer service, quality, and innovation. The company’s goal is to make each and every customer experience a special one. Fred Kremer, MD, developed the formulas to create the first ultrasound pachymeter. This device was used to measure corneal thickness for the radial keratotomy (RK) market. After patenting th ..read more

Eyecare professionals have an unwavering commitment to protect patients as well as staff members from infections while in the office. In order to accomplish this hefty feat, all instruments that contact the patient’s ocular surfaces must be disinfected. Failing to do so can result in infections being transmitted: From staff to patient From patient to staff By direct contact between patients By contaminated instruments Via airborne transmission Simply put, there are a vast number of ways, means, and opportunities where patients, staff, and eye care providers can be exposed to infection. Use t ..read more

The post From Coast to Coast, Accutome Makes the Most of Conference Season appeared first on EyeOpener Ophthalmology Blog ..read more