Online eye triage tool demonstrates accuracy and high patient acceptability in real-world study
An online triage tool used in community optometry showed similar sensitivity but significantly higher specificity than optometrists in identifying urgent eye cases, according to a study.
A real-world mixed methods study evaluated the implementation of the “eye+dot” web-based triage app across 7 optometry practices over a 5-month period. The tool uses a conditional logic questionnaire to collect symptom and medical history data, generating a report and automated triage recommendation. Optometrists participating in the study reviewed the symptom reports but did not see the app’s triage decisions.
A total of 209 patients were included. Among 3 patients presenting with potentially sight- or life-threatening symptoms, both the app and optometrists correctly identified the need for urgent hospital referral. For 53 cases deemed by hospital specialists to require evaluation within 24 hours, the app demonstrated sensitivity comparable to optometrists (75.5% vs 77.3%; P = 0.99) but significantly higher specificity (82.7% vs 54.4%; P < 0.001).
Patient feedback was favorable, with 82% of 147 respondents rating the tool in the top 2 categories on a 5-point scale. Optometrists in 5 of 7 practices reported the app was helpful and expressed interest in continued use.
Reference
Lim JO, Farrell S, Newlands SJ, et al. Real-World Evaluation of the Eye+Dot Online Triage Support Tool in Community Optometry Practices: Mixed Methods Evaluation Study. JMIR Hum Factors. 2026;13:e77278. doi: 10.2196/77278. PMID: 41838883; PMCID: PMC12991188.
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